How to Haul a Kayak on Top of an ATV

All-terrain vehicles, better known as ATVs, are small all-wheel-drive rigs designed to get into the backcountry and areas not traversable by other types of vehicles. Because of this ability, ATVs make logical choices to portage gear and kayaks to remote rivers, lakes and inlets. In order to haul the kayak on the top of the ATV, you must address two things: adding a suitable rack for the kayak and learning how the ATV handles with the added weight and height from the rack and kayak.

Things You'll Need

  • ATV kayak/canoe rack
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Instructions

    • 1

      Install the ATV rack to the front and rear of the ATV. Different rack makers use different methods of attachment.

    • 2

      Lift and place the kayak into the cradles on the rack, in the center of the two rack towers, fore and aft on the ATV. Use nylon webbing ratchet straps to secure the kayak to the rack. If you are traveling with a line of ATVs, be sure to hang red flags on the front and rear ends of the kayaks for safety.

    • 3

      Practice driving the ATV with the kayak on the rack. The increased height and weight make the ATV susceptible to tips. Practice turning corners on flat ground. Go slow as you enter the turn to get a feel for the rack and kayak.

    • 4

      Keep the kayak empty when hauling it on the ATV rack. Added weight in the kayak adds to the instability of the ATV. If you have lots of gear, use a trailer to haul it, or pack it onto the rear and front ATV racks that are on the rig.

    • 5

      Pick out routes without low-hanging branches or obstacles to prevent damage to the kayak, rack, ATV or yourself. The added height makes going through thick forests difficult; pick routes out with a minimum of overhang.