How to Modify a Kayak

Kayaking can be an ideal way to relax out on the water, get a bit of exercise, or it can be an adventurous thrill-ride on heart-pounding rapids. Several types of kayaks are available, each designed for a specific purpose, such as sea kayaks and fishing kayaks. Many kayak enthusiasts choose to modify their kayak for a specific purpose, typically for comfort or fishing needs. Kayaks can be modified in several ways to make the vessel suit your needs best.

Things You'll Need

  • Medium grit sandpaper
  • Outdoor fast-bonding adhesive
  • Foam weather-striping or PVC line insulation
  • Drill
  • 1/2 inch drill bit and 3/8ths drill bit
  • Nylon rope
  • Carabiner
  • 5 foot main rope
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Instructions

  1. For Comfort

    • 1

      Locate any rough spots on the kayak cockpit edges. Generally, many kayaks won't have any padding around the cockpit, and this can cause skin abrasion and bruising on kayak trips.

    • 2

      Lightly sand the edges around the cockpit using medium grit sandpaper. This will rough the surface up to hold a tight adhesive bond.

    • 3

      Cut two-inch foam or PVC line insulation to fit the diameter of the cockpit. Apply adhesive to the cockpit rim edge.

    • 4

      Attach the foam to the top of the rim and smooth it down flat under the cockpit's edge. Allow sufficient time for the adhesive to cure.

    For Fishing

    • 5

      Drill five 1.5-inch diameter holes into the bottom of a five-gallon bucket. Space the holes evenly apart, just like the No. 5 pattern on a standard rolling die.

    • 6

      Drill four holes just underneath the bucket rim using a 3/8-inch drill bit. Space the holes evenly apart around the bucket diameter.

    • 7

      Cut four nylon ropes to three feet each. Tie each rope to the bucket rim holes. Pull the four ropes up and tie two together, then tie another two together. Slide the ropes onto a carabiner

    • 8

      Tie a five-foot rope to the carabiner, then attach the rope to your kayak, at the aft or bow via any utility bar or cleat that you have available. Toss the drift bucket in the water when you need more stability or want to stay in a stationary position in high winds while fishing.