Best kayak accessories according to redditors

Well...here's all the stuff I bought on my Amazon list lately. Does that help?

AUKEY 1080p Dash Cam
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B072FGL63X/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Black Off Road Scene Easy Fit Mud Guard
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002NIJS0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Car Travel Inflatable Mattress
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N7MZ3YO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Xprite Amber 240 LED Roof Top Mini Flashing Strobe Light
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0091XUAY8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Smoke Tint Slim Wind Deflector
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00335FH4S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pet Dog Seat Belt Leash
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0719R1YNZ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

30 Ft. Polyester Tow Strap
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L5RMPT6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hood tie-Down Loops
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CRBXQUK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Seat Cover for Pets
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QHC02EY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Silicone Wedding Ring For Men (For the radio knobs)
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD31K4P/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Toyota Tacoma Center Console Tray
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KI3WG1O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Toyota Tacoma Center Console Organizer
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B016ZB4VZC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Front Car Seat Covers
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FBLOR88/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Husky Liners Front Floor Liners
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B019YS22MM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Annnnnnnnnnd I'm just now seeing you were talking about the 2nd Gen...

>Why tf can't Subaru just make a outdoor oriented roof rack system?

Because for every 1 person who carries things on the roof there are 50 who don't, and some carry bicycles, others carry surfboards, other carry skis, and so on. To accommodate all of these different customers Subaru gives you a good solid low noise and low wind resistance base so you can add a roof rack of your choice.

Just buy a Thule Portage roof rack like all the other canoe owners do and quit whining.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FSROJ5C/

And if you really think you need a front tie down point, just buy one.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/

You can Google or Amazon t style hood loops it kayak hood loops, like this:

Shoreline Marine Propel hood Trunk tie-Down Loops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/

I've used Thule before with no issues. Basically you hold the strap or rest it outside the hood and back and have the black plastic piece under the hood and then close it. The black plastic piece orevents it from coming out from under the hood and you can set it on either side if the hood and same with the back.

Congrats!

2000 h/b w/ B16 owned for over 5 years!

2006 TL six-speed owned for over 5 years!

Don't mind that pool noodle kayak carrier system on the TL, that was a one time solution lol. Wanted to suggest what I bought for kayak bow and stern lines by the way - noticed you're tying them down to below the car - that was always a bit of a pain in the ass. I got a couple sets of these two years ago and they've been awesome! I'm sure there's other brands, but holy hell what a solution. I put them on either side of the hood and inside the trunk. Have used them for long hauls and for just taking going local, and to secure my giant 14' sea kayak alongside our cheapy Walmart kayak.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072QBZDQS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_imEMBbBSDX69Y

These are the ones I picked up, great quality.

yarp. those racks can and do come off, so a rope to the front and rear could save your yak, and prevent you from killing somebody.

something like this makes it easy.

Milk crate with rod holders in back

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=kayak+crate+rod+holder&ref=nb_sb_noss_2


Scupper plugs https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F7NKV8H/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


definitely going to want a seat mod.


a dry bag: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H5PQHGV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


An Anchor and Anchor trolley will make fishing and most importantly, staying on the sweet hole much easier.
https://www.amazon.com/YakAttack-LeverLock-Deluxe-Trolley-AMS-1003/dp/B016LF5CI2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=anchor+trolly+kit&qid=1568053827&s=gateway&sr=8-1


https://www.amazon.com/Danielson-AFOLDG3-Folding-Galvanized-3-Pound/dp/B004LR7R8G/ref=sr_1_27?keywords=anchor+trolly+kit&qid=1568053827&s=gateway&sr=8-27


Looks like you could use a paddle holder.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=paddle+clips&ref=nb_sb_noss_1


Amazon has inexpensive kits you can get a bundle of eyelets with rivets. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075V1JN52/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have everything on my yak leashed
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D4NSCRC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RGWD6TW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You can buy straps/loops that gun under your car hood and give you a tie point. Can reduce chance of paint running vs tying to something underneath the car.


Propel by Shoreline Marine Hood and Trunk Loop Kayak Tie Down Straps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_o5QsDbBTMRC3S

Like the above. There's also kinds that you attach to a bolt/screw under the hood that may be an option. Those you just flip out from the hood when you need to use.

You're probably fine if everything is tight, but I picked up these a few weeks ago and they just give me a little extra security. I strap them to the tie down on the kayak with a bungee.

Shoreline Marine Propel hood... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Not sure I fully understand your situation but maybe something like this?

Scotty #141 Kayak/SUP Transducer Mounting Arm with Gear-Head https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0174X6T5A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sgyVDbZFVAVH6

Hood/trunk tie down loops.

People use just about anything for drop bags, but they shouldn't. I recommend dry bags (choose your size) and waterproof cruise tag holders for labeling. All it takes is one rainy race or getting your bag shredded to motivation the transition. If what you're keeping in your drop bag is important to have during the race, take care of it.

Lasso kayak lock

With the understanding that anything you buy will only deter thefts of opportunity. It won't stop a determined thief with cable cutters.

This is going to blow your mind.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CRBXQUK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I drop a bicycle at one end and drive to the start. I toss an empty backpack in the kayak to carry all my more expensive gear on the bike but most of the time I just stow my gear in the hatches. I have a cable lock like this for the kayak. Overall the places I am leaving my kayak are places that like minded people are hanging out as well, I have never had an issue with gear being taken.

Edit: This is the exact lock I have, works well.

I own a couple Perception Sound 10.5's which are the same thing but without the extra fishing gear that Dick's slaps on to sell them as the Hook 10.5.

1. Agreed, these boats go through waves and rapids instead of over, and while the website says class 1 and 2 capable, you're gonna get wet and I wouldn't push it either, try to avoid.
   
   1. They're fun, but one should be careful, and avoid bigger ones. Also strap your stuff down if you're gonna take gear, no sense in losing it. Is fun to punch through waves and get wet on a hot summer day for sure.
      
   2. If I was going to keep using my Sound 10.5, I was going to invest in a bilge pump. I have since purchased and started using different kayaks, but still have the Sounds in storage. Debating if I'll keep em or not. Damn good little stable sit-in fishing kayaks, utility focused, fun floaters, decent seat, price was right, they got me back into the water sport and most of all, fishing again.
      
2. I keep em in my net which is that clear plastic/rubber style webbing, I have a couple sets of pliers on hand. Most of the time I would do okay. Bigger fish I would sometimes do over the side, for sit-in kayaks the Sound/Hook 10.5 are pretty stable, but can feel pretty tippy of course. I was still cautious, this was never an easy thing with larger and feistier fish and this kayak, some may have more or less trouble with it. My new kayak is much more open and wider for dealing with these situations. It has been fun getting pulled around by large trout and pike.
   
   1. Pinch your barbs too! Might lose a few because of it...but if you hook yourself its at least less painful and messy of an extraction on the water. You may not have much time to deal with it when it happens.
      
   2. Maybe a hawg trough would be helpful if you can keep them held down to it. I don't have one (yet), so not sure if that's a good idea or not.
      
3. Install some hoops or kleets to clip/tie off to, tie to small carabiners or clip at the end of your stringer to clip onto the hoop. Problem solved. I mostly catch and release unless I'm out camping so not often I run into this. Generally if I'm thinking of keeping anything I'll bring a soft cooler with ice in that I strap down in the back. One issue with this kayak is limited access turning around. I really appreciate my new kayak more for being able to turn around and reach back.
   
   1. https://www.amazon.com/Mizugiwa-Nylon-Cleat-Black-Pack/dp/B01DYNMJCG
      
   2. https://www.amazon.com/Docooler-10pcs-Bungee-Screws-Rigging/dp/B01JU98V84
      
   3. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075V1JN52
      
4. My wife lost an expensive rod/reel combo to the small branch of a tree that grabbed it out of that rear rod holder as we floated under it. Didn't even hear it go...was totally ridiculous. I've dealt with some lake chop and had my rod/reel combos not been clipped down, I would've lost em. I almost flipped...but kept upright, pulled the straps to recover my sank rod/reels, cleaned em at home, good to go. The 1-carabiner + 3 straps solution is like $12 on Amazon. A small price to pay for keeping gear. I always strap my paddle to. I don't want to have to chase my gear if I flip, especially on a river. Even if it never happens, it's not that big of a deal to me to be prepared but early on it was kind of annoying to adjust to. Not losing another rod/reel combo though? Priceless. :)
   
   1. On the Sound 10.5, I used the 0-ring on the end of the seat back adjuster strap on the right side behind the seat support sidewall. Worked great, I was able to leash my paddle and two rods. I used some extra bungees for my milk crate that would clip onto the larger holes in those same supports on both sides of the seat.
      
   2. https://www.amazon.com/Campingandkayaking-CYBER-Paddle-Leashes-Carabiner/dp/B00MXJFXOE
      
   3. https://www.amazon.com/YYST-Orange-Paddle-Holder-Lanyard/dp/B06Y4RG4RH/
      
      Glad you got to have a good river float yesterday! Got some pictures of them fish? :)

Check these out for more tie-down points:

Sherpak Hood Loops

Hood/Trunk Tie down Loops

Also, as others have said, you should look into a roof rack with stacker bars.

If it were me, I'd want to lower my center of gravity for better stability (not sure how tall you are though). Something like this would give you some back relief and keep your center of gravity as low as possible.

I just completed this exact project on two Wave kayaks. This seat from Amazon worked well and seems to be pretty good quality (haven't had them on the water yet, though):

BKC UH-KS222 Universal Sit on Top Full Kayak Seat Padded seat and Backrest https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MXW3FKG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wZSTAbPD621G2

You'll need a pad eye kit so you can attach the rear of the seat. Pretty easy... you should be able to knock it out in about 10-15 minutes.

Obviously its this for your face and this to hold in your zap carry if it's a little loose down there.

I haven't used them personally but these.

>Do yours have the lumeon for lighting up the inflated jacket?

Yep. And flexible-stem light on the outside of the bladder for seeing stuff.

>Are you using personal ais in each life jacket as well?

Well this is only a personal lifejacket, I don't own or run a boat (yet), but in my lifejacket yes, I have an AIS MOB1 from Oceansignal.

In case you're interested, based on a sea survival course lecture I was a given a while ago, I bought the best lifejacket I could find, and decided to research, purchase and fit the very best whistle (all lifejackets come with a an ISO standard whistle, but it's awful, so I wanted another better one), emergency knife, emergency signalling light, and emergency line (for tethering people together in the water or tethering to safer places like liferafts or floats), I possibly could. I came up with:

• Fox 40 Sonik Blast CMG Whistle
  
• Aqualung Small Squeeze Dive Knife (blunt tip, will be kept on the webbing belt of my lifejacket)
  
• This thread about lights... (I'll probably end with an LED strobe beacon and your recommended Cyalume SOS lights, they look great!)
  
• Red/orange Dyneema hollow braid line (don't worry, I know that having random long pieces of line floating around in the water can actually be dangerous. I' going to do some experiments, and hopefully find a way of coiling the line, then tying the coil to my lifejacket (probably inside) with a quick release hitch and making the end easily reached, so that I can easily deploy the whole lot when and if I need to).
  
• Possibly some small floats (like these) to keep each piece of equipment floating and easier to find.
  
• Probably also some retroflective tape for marking things.
  
  > If you want to tie it on, you could open one end of the foil, tie it up, then tape the top closed.
  
  I like this idea. I imagine I could do some experiments and come up with a good 'weak enough link' to tap the top that I could pull the foil off relatively easily when I needed to. But it seems like your rabbit hole comment has solved the problem for me, because a more robust version of that of that is exactly what Cyalume offer!

I always have front and back lines. Especially for highway speeds. I have a trailer hitch on back, and there's a nice hole under the front (honda pilot).

you could get under the hood and under hatchback tie downs:

https://www.amazon.com/Shoreline-Marine-Propel-Trunk-tie-Down/dp/B01CRBXQUK

Yeah no problem, let me know if you have anymore questions, I’m very happy with everything listed here...

ROOF RACK:

The OEM rack is only supposed to hold up to around 100lbs, which is why I bought this after market version instead, it holds up to 150lbs (each of my yaks weigh 70lbs). Took less than an hour to install.

Vesul Black Luggage Carrier Cargo Roof Rack Rails Side Crossbars Cross Bars Compatible with Toyota Tacoma 2005-2018 2019 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N1F7FVD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dA0qDbW3N7B73

J HOOKS:

I chose these clips because they collapse and because of the compatibility with the loading rails I’ve listed below.

Malone Downloader 2-Pack with SpeedLines (Two Sets of Malone Downloader J-Style Universal Car Racks) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078HY1HWD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Iu0qDb17QNC28

LOADING RAILS

If I had a car, I wouldn’t have bought these, but getting 70lb kayaks onto the roof of the truck isn’t easy by myself, and I’m 6ft. I was surprised how well they worked, a little pricey but def worth every penny IMO.

Malone Telos XL Load Assist Module, MPG351-XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078GQG5WW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GG0qDbG5VYPFY

Good luck!

https://www.amazon.com/Shoreline-Marine-Propel-Trunk-tie-Down/dp/B01CRBXQUK/ref=asc_df_B01CRBXQUK/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198096074308&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18315059136762736049&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009866&hvtargid=pla-352338593937&psc=1

Used these for my kayak just shut them in the hood and trunk. They worked great.

It’s a Scotty Transducer Arm with a Universal Sounder Mount . It’s a nice little set up, I rock the same.

Generally speaking it is important to tie the front and back...especially if you will be driving on the freeway near big trucks. I learned this the hard way when my kayak without front/back straps almost worked its way free on an windy day despite being firmly tied in to the j-bars.

But in some cases this isn't as important... Shorter kayaks are easier to secure without front-back straps. Another important variable is the space between the support bars for the boat and the horizontal straps. Close together is bad...and you'll need the extra front-back protection. Saddles are also much safer than j-bars and if you can compress a boat to the roof using pads that helps a lot.

There are other options though... My dad uses hood straps which are quite common and likely not as bad on the paint. eg https://www.amazon.com/Shoreline-Marine-Propel-Trunk-tie-Down/dp/B01CRBXQUK On my Suburu I have a bug deflect and my front tie-downs goes over that. Not sure if that helps in you case. Some straps are better than others. I love rope ratchets for front/back tie-downs and have had zero paint problems with them: https://www.amazon.com/Carolina-North-10025-Polypropylene-Capacity/dp/B006P39KPM

For footwear, I just throw on whatever sandals are all-around sandals (Straps over the achilles, and over the foot.

For water bottles... SmartWater bottles? They don't seem to sink when they get dropped in the water?

For paddles, I just stick them through the webbing on my yak. But, there are stow clips: https://www.amazon.com/Kayak-Paddle-Holder-Compatible-Kayaks/dp/B074FCYR3B

I have the same bars and the WB400 carriers for my Mazda. Great hardware. Unfortunately Yakima bought them for their patents and discontinued the whole line.

On the bow and stern lines - I usually run a bow line only. No good place to attach the stern line on my car without significant inconvenience.

I have these little straps I close in my hood I can hook the bow line to that might work for you - just close it in the frunk. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CRBXQUK/

Here's an aftermarket seat https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BTKI3RW/ref=mp_s_a_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1497233904&sr=8-23&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=kayak+seat

It looks simple to install. Just remove the bottom seat and stick this one one.

Main straps I open the doors and go through the car. I do that mostly for speed because I don't have to worry about the extra length of straps. Got them from Home Depot:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-1-in-x-12-ft-Ratchet-Tie-Down-4-Pack-FH0829/206802316

When I travel more than 20 minutes to the lake, I strap down the front and back using:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IHQHYPI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CRBXQUK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I installed a hitch on the car, so the rear tie downs get tied to that.

I use these Earth Pak bags when kayaking and love them. Never had a leak and they float in the water.

I don't want to discredit your DIY prowess, but this exists:

https://www.amazon.com/Scotty-140-Transducer-Mounting-Included/dp/B0174X6UNQ

This one even allows you to buy another rod holder sans base and run two rods up front, as well as being able to easily pivot horizontally if you run it into something or even for storage/transport:

https://www.amazon.com/Scotty-Kayak-Transducer-Mounting-Gear-Head/dp/B0174X6T5A

To add to your heartbreak, they seem to be designed for exactly your transducer. I had jerry rig a whole bunch of lock nuts along a bolt to make my larger Garmin DownVu transducer fit.

Something like this that you close in your hood and trunk Shoreline Marine Propel hood Trunk tie-Down Loops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_W04-ybYDMSS41

And the ropes Malone Auto Racks SpeedLine Mini Ratchet Tie-Downs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IHQHYPI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Q14-yb5825GX5

I would assume something like this [hood tie down ](Shoreline Marine Propel hood Trunk tie-Down Loops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_InwLBbPVQTN77)

Phone cup holder mount
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077BKBK6V?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Transducer mount
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07961CHR8?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

The arm mount is the official Deeper mount.

Scotty #141 Kayak/SUP Transducer Mounting Arm with Gear-Head https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0174X6T5A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ngfCzbV070GVM

I use this and it works great. I had to get my own wing nut and bolt to attach the transducer but it's nice that it can be pulled up and folded up out of the way. It does create some drag but it keeps the finder working while moving. I mounted two tracks so i can switch sides if i wish.

Budget changes on the individual. I would recommend stopping by local retailers and look /sitting in. Take a test paddle if they allow. Keep eye on used market. Read some reviews. https://www.rapidmedia.com/paddlingbuyersguide
For my recommendation check out pescador pilot 12.0.
https://www.perceptionkayaks.com/us/kayaks/pescador-pilot-120
$1800 lowest cost pedel drive new. Handles open water from the reviews. Has a high weight capacity.
Pelican also have some good hulls at fair new price. People hate on them. I have no complaints on my for the price I paid, once I added hot seat.
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Seat-Kayak-Mild/dp/B00BTKI3RW

Oh... sorry, I misread your question. Those are YakAttack rod holders. My buddy bought the basic one and added an 8” extension.

YakAttack Omega Rod Holder with LockNLoad Track Mounting Base https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078PL9DW8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QUYBDbYBW73GN

And he added this:

YakAttack 8" Extension Arm for LocknLoad Track Mounted Accessories - Fits Omega Rod Holder, Omega Pro Rod Holder, and FFP Fish Finder Mounts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G7CDY39/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BVYBDbNCFN2W5

I use this one, in a 20L size. It's probably too big for what I use it for but it's cheap and gets the job done. Barlii DrySak - (20L, Dusk) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079Z6LYVJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_cyPBDbTWAHQ5D

The wheel system works okay I just rolled the kayak 30 yards and up some stairs. I need to find a better way to strap it to the kayak. It did come loose once.
New Kayak Canoe Boat Carrier Trolley Trailer Dolly Transport Cart Wheels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7RNDBK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_iwOoJ2UTINbsB

I tried all kinds of shade devices but I will ultimately end up getting an adventure canopy

the way the front and rear bumpers go you would put strain on them, i use these on my 2014 front and back and they work pretty well

Propel by Shoreline Marine Hood and Trunk Loop Kayak Tie Down Straps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRBXQUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_ewAtDbDD9PJ9M

Ya the seat they give you is flat against the board so your legs are straight out. Very uncomfortable. The lawn chair style seat I got is about 6 inches off the board so your legs aren't flat out along the board. This is what I got. If the link works. Elkton Outdoors Aluminum Frame Seat Upgrade Hard Kayaks and Hard SUPs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RP5HWBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6SczDbNBFVRBV

Front and back:
Shoreline Marine Hood Trunk Tie... https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01CRBXQUK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share