How to Build a Rudder for a Kayak

A rudder is a helpful addition to a kayak that helps the paddler to maintain a straight course in wind or waves. It is an oblong piece of wood or plastic attached to the back of a kayak that a paddler can lower into the water and control with foot pedals. Many kayaks do not have rudders, but you can add one to a boat to make paddling easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Rudder pattern
  • Plexiglas or marine-grade plywood
  • Fiberglass cloth and epoxy
  • Jigsaw or table saw
  • Sandpaper or belt sander
  • Rudder bracket
  • Rudder cables
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a rudder design. For most kayaks, a rudder that measures up to 5 inches wide and 12 inches tall works well. Use the length of your kayak to determine rudder size: for optimal control, when the rudder is deployed, about 6 to 8 inches of it should be submerged. Rudder shapes vary; for ideas and patterns, visit the Sundowner Kayak Rudder web page. (See Reference 1)

    • 2

      Cut out the rudder shape. You can make a rudder out of high-grade Plexiglas or fiberglass-coated plywood. Using a rudder pattern, trace the shape onto the material. Cut out the rudder with a jigsaw or table saw. Sand the edges by hand or using a belt sander, paying particular attention to the edge that will cut through the water. The fewer rough edges the rudder has, the less resistance your kayak will have as it moves through the water. If you use plywood, cover the rudder's surface with fiberglass and allow it to dry completely.

    • 3

      Build the rudder brackets. To attach the rudder to your kayak, you need brackets and a holding case that will allow the rudder to rotate. You can purchase brackets from a company like Seward Kayaks, or fashion your own out of metal or rubber. (See Reference 2) The bracket sits on the kayak's stern and is typically held in place by screws. The rudder rotates within the bracket, controlled by a cable system.

    • 4

      Attach a cable control system. Usually, you control a kayak rudder with cables installed inside the kayak and attached to foot pedals. Pushing on the pedals pulls the cable and adjusts rudder position as you paddle. Buy cables from a retailer such as Duckworks Boat Builders Supply, which provides parts and installation instructions. (See Reference 3)