How To Transport A Fishing Kayak: A Comprehensive Guide

Transport a fishing kayak may seem daunting due to its size and weight, but with the right approach and equipment, it can be a straightforward task. Whether you’re planning a short trip to the local lake or a longer adventure, knowing how to transport your fishing kayak safely is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about transporting a fishing kayak, from vehicle options and accessories to loading techniques and safety tips.

Why Proper Kayak Transportation Matters

Fishing kayaks are designed to be robust, but improper transportation can cause damage. Scratches, dents, or cracks could compromise the kayak’s structural integrity. Additionally, ensuring your kayak is securely fastened during transportation is vital for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Transporting a fishing kayak also requires following legal requirements, such as securing your load properly to avoid fines or accidents. Let’s dive into the best ways to transport your fishing kayak.

The ideal ways to transport your fishing kayak

1. Choosing the Right Vehicle for Kayak Transport

Your choice of vehicle plays a critical role in transporting a fishing kayak. Fortunately, you don’t need a dedicated truck or trailer for this task. Several vehicles can efficiently carry a fishing kayak, including:

Sedans and Small Cars

If you own a sedan, transporting a fishing kayak may seem impossible. However, with the right roof rack system, you can secure the kayak to the roof of your car. Just ensure the kayak doesn’t overhang excessively beyond the front or back of the vehicle.

SUVs and Crossovers

SUVs and crossovers are ideal for kayak transportation. They often come with roof rails, making it easy to add crossbars and racks to support the kayak. Their height and spacious interior also provide ample room for other fishing gear.

Trucks

Trucks are one of the best options for transporting a fishing kayak, especially for longer kayaks. You can place the kayak directly in the truck bed or invest in a truck bed extender to ensure the kayak is fully supported.

Trailers

If you frequently transport multiple kayaks or own a heavy, large fishing kayak, using a kayak trailer is a great solution. Trailers provide the convenience of towing the kayak behind your vehicle, making it easier to load and unload.

2. Essential Equipment for Kayak Transportation

To transport your fishing kayak securely, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. Here’s a list of essentials:

Roof Racks

Roof racks are the most common way to transport a kayak on a car or SUV. There are several types of kayak roof racks:

• J-style Racks: These hold the kayak on its side, saving space for additional gear.
• Saddle Racks: These hold the kayak flat, providing more stability for larger fishing kayaks.
• Stacker Racks: Ideal for transporting multiple kayaks, these allow you to stack kayaks on their sides.

Crossbars

If your vehicle doesn’t already have them, installing crossbars is a must. These provide the foundation for securing the kayak rack and distributing weight evenly across the roof.

Kayak Cart or Dolly

A kayak cart or dolly makes moving your kayak from your vehicle to the water much easier, especially for heavier fishing kayaks. These accessories feature wheels that let you roll the kayak over rough terrain without straining your back.

Cam Straps and Bow/Stern Lines

Using high-quality cam straps ensures the kayak stays securely fastened to your vehicle. Bow and stern lines (attached to the front and rear of the kayak) add an extra layer of security by reducing movement during transport.

Foam Blocks

If you don’t have a kayak roof rack, foam blocks can be an affordable alternative. These pads sit between the kayak and the vehicle roof, preventing scratches and helping distribute weight.

3. Loading and Securing Your Kayak

Once you have the right equipment, loading and securing your kayak is the next step. Here’s how to do it correctly:

Lifting the Kayak

Lifting a fishing kayak onto your vehicle can be challenging, especially if you’re doing it alone. Here are a few strategies to help:

• Get a Second Person: The easiest way to lift a kayak is with the help of a friend.
• Use a Kayak Lift Assist: Some roof racks come with lift assist systems, which allow you to slide the kayak up onto the roof easily.
• The Roll-and-Lift Method: For solo transport, place the kayak on the ground next to the vehicle. Lift one end onto the rear of the car, then push the kayak up and onto the rack.

Positioning the Kayak

Position the kayak so that it’s centered on the roof rack. Make sure the weight is evenly distributed to prevent tipping or shifting during transport.

Securing the Kayak

Using cam straps, loop the strap around the kayak and crossbars, then tighten it securely. Attach bow and stern lines to the front and back of the kayak, securing them to the vehicle’s bumpers or tow hooks. This helps reduce any side-to-side movement.

Ensure that the kayak doesn’t move when you push it gently. If it shifts, double-check your straps and adjust them as needed.

4. Safety Tips for Transporting a Fishing Kayak

Check Local Laws

Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with any local regulations regarding kayak transport. Some states or regions may require flags on items that extend beyond the vehicle or have specific rules for securing loads.

Use Bright Flags or Lights

If your fishing kayak extends beyond your vehicle’s length, attach a brightly colored flag or light to the end. This improves visibility for other drivers, reducing the chance of an accident.

Drive Slowly and Carefully

Kayak transport adds height and weight to your vehicle, which can affect handling. Drive cautiously, especially in windy conditions or when navigating under low bridges. If you’re unsure about clearance, stop and check before proceeding.

Inspect Your Straps Regularly

Even if you’ve secured your kayak tightly, straps can loosen during long trips. Stop periodically to inspect and tighten the straps as necessary. This is particularly important on bumpy roads.

5. Unloading Your Kayak

When you reach your destination, unloading the kayak safely is just as important as loading it. Here’s how to do it:

Release the Straps

Loosen and remove the cam straps and bow/stern lines, but keep a hand on the kayak to prevent it from sliding off unexpectedly.

Lower the Kayak Slowly

If you’re with a partner, work together to lower the kayak from the roof or truck bed. For solo unloading, reverse the roll-and-lift method by lowering one end of the kayak onto the ground, and then gently sliding the rest down.

Use a Kayak Cart

Once the kayak is on the ground, place it on a kayak cart to roll it easily to the water’s edge.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Transporting a fishing kayak can be tricky, and there are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overtightening Straps: While you want the kayak to be secure, overtightening can cause damage to the kayak’s hull, particularly if it’s made of plastic or composite materials.
• Ignoring Weight Limits: Make sure your vehicle’s roof or truck bed can handle the weight of your kayak and any additional gear.
• Skipping Safety Checks: Failing to recheck straps or bow/stern lines during a long trip can lead to the kayak shifting or coming loose.

Conclusion

Learning how to transport a fishing kayak is essential for any kayak angler. By selecting the right vehicle, using proper equipment, and following safety protocols, you’ll ensure that your kayak remains in excellent condition and ready for your next fishing adventure. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll be able to transport your fishing kayak confidently and safely every time. For an enjoyable experience, consider checking out the 11 best-rated fishing kayaks for anglers to find the perfect match for your needs.