Kayak Accessories

Accessories for Kayaks - Resources & Information

Kayak accessories are added to a kayak and other watercraft to enhance its functionality, safety, and/or comfort. Choose from Paddles, Life vests, Dry bags, Roof racks, and much more to enhance the kayaking experience.

PartsVu is proud to offer a full selection of Watersports & Kayak Accessories for your kayak, wakeboard, pontoon boat, inflatables, and much more. PartsVu also offers a complete catalog of YakGear Accessories for kayaks, including:

• YakGear Rigging & Rigging Kits
• Rod Holders & Rod Holder Accessories
• YakGear Anchors & Anchoring Kits
• Transportation & Storage
• Mounts & Hardware
• Lighting & Visibility
• Tools, Grips, & Fish Stik Rulers
• Paddling Gloves
• Angler Crates & Accessories
• Paddle Leashes
• Outriggers

Want to learn more about how to mount watersports accessories, tips to enjoy the water safely, and learn about the newest gear for your watercraft? PartsVu regularly publishes helpful how-to guides and other valuable information on our boating blog, PartsVu Xchange. On the PartsVu Xchange (and the FAQ below), you’ll find a wide range of relevant topics that every boater needs to know to have the best time on the water. 

Kayak Accessories FAQ

What are the parts of a kayak?

The most common kayak parts include:

1. Hull: The bottom part of the kayak that sits in the water and provides buoyancy.
2. Deck: The top part of the kayak that sits above the water, often featuring a cockpit for the user to sit in.
3. Cockpit: The opening in the deck where the user sits, often featuring a seat and footrests.
4. Bow: The front end of the kayak.
5. Stern: The back end of the kayak.
6. Gunwale: The upper edge of the kayak's side, often used to attach kayak acessories such as rod holders or paddles.
7. Skeg or Rudder: A small fin or blade located at the stern of the kayak, used to help with steering and tracking.
8. Drain plug: A removable plug located at the bottom of the kayak, used to drain water that may have entered the kayak.
9. Hatches: Waterproof compartments located on the deck, used for storage.
10. Paddle: The tool used to propel the kayak through the water.

Some kayaks may have additional features and accessories for a kayak such as a rudder or a spray skirt, or may include kayak gadgets like camera mounts, kayak outriggers, light poles, and more.

What are the most common Kayak Accessories?

Some common kayak accessaries include:

1. Paddles: Kayak paddles come in different sizes and styles to suit different types of kayaking and different body types. Some paddles are adjustable in length, making them suitable for different users.
2. Life vests: A life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is an important safety accessory for kayaking. Kayak-specific PFDs are designed to be comfortable to wear while sitting in a kayak seat.
3. Dry bags: Dry bags are waterproof bags that can be used to keep gear and personal items dry while kayaking. These types of kayak assessories come in different sizes and styles to suit different needs.
4. Roof racks: Kayak roof racks are used to transport kayaks on the roof of a car or truck. This essential kayak equipment is designed to securely hold the kayak in place while the vehicle is in motion.
5. Kayak seats: Kayak seats come in different styles and materials to provide comfort and support while kayaking. Some seats are designed to be adjusted for different body types and some have built-in back support.
6. Spray skirts: Spray skirts are designed to keep water out of the kayak cockpit. They are typically made of waterproof material and are worn around the waist.
7. Fish finders and GPS: For kayak anglers, fish finders and GPS devices can be useful accessories to locate fish and navigate on the water.
8. Rod holders: Kayak-specific rod holders are designed to securely hold fishing rods while paddling or fishing.
9. Anchors: An anchor can be used to keep a kayak in a specific location, they come in different sizes and types for different types of kayaking.

What should I know about kayak accessories?

Kyak accessoriesare items that can be added to a kayak to enhance safety, comfort, and functionality. Here are a few key things to know when purchasing and using kayak accessories:

• Safety: Accessories such as personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles, and helmets are essential for safety while kayaking. Make sure to choose equipment that is appropriate for your skill level and the conditions you'll be kayaking in.
• Comfort: Accessories such as seat backs, footrests, and paddling gloves can help make your kayaking experience more comfortable. Look for items that are adjustable and can be easily configured to fit your body.
• Functionality: Accessories such as rod holders, storage compartments, and fishing gear can enhance the functionality of your kayak, making it more versatile for different activities.
• Compatibility: Make sure the accessories you are buying are compatible with your kayak. Some accessories, such as rod holders, may require drilling holes in the kayak for installation.
• Maintenance: Keep all your kayak accessories properly stored when not in use and make sure to check and maintain them before using them.
• Weather protection: Consider adding accessories such as spray skirts or covers to protect you from the elements, especially in case of bad weather.
• Transport: Make sure you have the proper accessories to transport your kayak safely and efficiently, such as kayak carts, roof racks, and tie-down straps.
• Navigation: Consider adding navigation accessories such as a compass, GPS, or a VHF radio for communication and navigation.
• Additional accessories: Some kayakers might like to add some other accessories such as a waterproof camera case, a fishing net, or a kayak anchor to make the kayak more versatile and adaptable to different activities.

Which kayak attachments are best for fishing?

Here are some popular kayak attachments for fishing:

1. Rod holders
2. Fish finders/GPS units
3. Anchor trolleys
4. Coolers/storage containers
5. Tackle boxes
6. Paddle holders
7. Milk crate/storage deck
8. Camera mounts
9. Cup holders
10. Landing nets

What's the best RAILBLAZA fish finder mount?

RAILBLAZA offers a variety of fish finder mounts, each with its own unique features and benefits. The best RAILBLAZA fish finder mounts for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

One of the most popular fish finder mounting options is the RAILBLAZA Fishfinder Mount. It is a versatile mount that attaches to your fish finder and allows you to install it in various locations on your watercraft. It also allows for easy adjustment of the angle and position of the fish finder. It's designed to work with most fish finders on the market and can be installed quickly and easily.

Another option is the RAILBLAZA i-series Fishfinder Mount. It's one of the most compact and versatile fishing electronics mounts available that can be used for fishfinders and other small electronics. The mount is designed to work with most fish finders on the market and is constructed from durable, UV-stabilized materials. It has a central post that allows for easy adjustment of the angle and position of the fish finder and it can be mounted to your kayak, boat or other watercraft with an i-series StarPort or through the use of screws.

Where can I learn how more about watersports?

In addition to learning about Kayak Accessories, PartsVu has plenty of resources for everything you need to know about watersports, kayaks, and much more. Start with the following guides and be sure to use the search bar to find plenty of other useful guides to enjoy the water in confidence:

Kayak

• Beginner’s Guide to Outfitting a Fishing Kayak
• Kayak Fishing Florida’s Remote Waters
• Angler Armor—New Boat Theft Prevention Technology
• Different Types of Boats — A Comprehensive Guide - PartsVu

Inflatables

• 6 Boat Party Ideas You Have to Try 
• Top 16 Gift Ideas for Kids Who Love to Boat 
• 5 Ideas for Pontoon Boat Fun

Fishing

• Bass Fishing Tips from Bassmaster Elite Series Angler Garrett Paquette
• Part 2: How to Become a Better Bass Angler
• How a Texas Fisherman Made His Boat His Own - PartsVu
• Top Boating Destinations in Florida – 12 Places You Must Visit
• Toadfish Outfitters - Protecting What We Love

Safety

• PFD 101: Selecting the Right Life Jackets
• US Coast Guard Requirements: Boat Safety Equipment
• Boating Safety—Justin Borque and Matthew Bongi of Seachoice Discuss the Ins and Outs of Boating Safety Products
• Kids’ Life Jackets- How to Ensure a Proper Fit
• Boating Safety – Essential Guide to Gear & Technologies
• Offshore Boating Safety — Knowledge & Preparedness
• What Safety Precautions Should You Take When Hunting from a Boat?