If you’ve ever tried to lock up a kayak before, then you know that it can be tricky and makes your kayaking hard. How do you hold the boat steady while locking it? How do you get both ends of the rope into the same hole on those pesky pins? How many times have sharp edges cut your fingers in your Kayak as they try to work blindly with wet hands and cold fingers?
In this blog post, we will answer all these questions and more! We will show how to lock up your kayak quickly, easily, and safely so that everyone can enjoy their time out on the water without worry about being locked out of their boat!
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Contents
How To Lock Up Your Kayak?
There are multiple methods for locking up kayaks, depending on where you’re planning to do it. So below, we have organized some tips based on what type of locks or keys your Kayak has and whether or not there is an easy access point in which someone could use another object (like a wrench) to unlock the pins/straps holding them down.
Lock Up Your Kayak At Home
If you’ve got a kayak with two pins on either end, the easiest way to lock up your Kayaks is by using carabiners. You can use one carabiner at each pinhole and then wrap around some sturdy object like a tree branch or pole that won’t move over time. This method also allows for easy access to both ends of the rope, which means less work!
It might not be as simple if you don’t have any trees nearby. The next best thing is wrapping them around pipes so they are still secure but allow more movement when needed.
Lock Up Your Kayak Up At A Camping Site
If you’re planning on locking up your Kayak at a camping site, then there are two options. Either using the carabiners, or you can use long ropes to tie it down securely. A camping site has plenty of trees or poles to use as a base, and the string will be able to wrap around those.
Lock Up Your Kayak At The Beach
At the beach, we recommend wrapping both ends of the rope around sturdy objects near where your boat is located and tying them in tight knots, so they won’t slip off easily but will still be easy for someone with wet hands; to get out from when needed!
Some docks may have locking systems in place already- Ask beforehand about what type of locking system they have available to you. If there are no locks, a simple way to lock your Kayak up is by tying it at the dock using ropes or bungee cords so that it cannot be easily pulled away.
If you have a kayak with just one pin on either end, the easiest way to lock up your Kayak is by using a chain. You can use a rope or bungee cord and then loop it around something sturdy like in the previous section.
This method also allows for easy access to both ends of the rope, which means less work!
It might not be as easy if there are no pipes nearby. The next best thing is wrapping them around trees, so they are still secure but just allow more movement when needed.
Lock Up Your Kayak Up In A Parking Lot
Parking lot locks tend to be basic push-down style keys that don’t require any tools- Allowing anyone to quickly unlock your Kayak.
So it is important to remember that you might not be the only one who has access to these keys, and so we suggest locking up a kayak in this environment by simply using rope (or bungee chord) so that it cannot be easily pulled away.
Lock Up Your Kayak Up At A Public Fishing Pier
If you’re planning on fishing from one of these piers and leaving your boat for an extended period, then make sure that it’s tied down tightly! This can depend on how well anchored the pier is, but if possible, try securing both ends with carabiners – this will prevent someone else from being able to simply pull off the straps/pins holding them in place!
How Can I Prevent My Kayak Or Canoe From Being Stolen?
In order to prevent your Kayak or canoe from being stolen, there are a few things you can do! But please note that it is not completely possible to make your kayak or canoe 100% theft-proof.
The first thing you can do is to lock up your Kayak or canoe if it has a locking system in place such as carabiners, locks on the ends of the tubing, etc. Another option for those without these features is a rope (or bungee chord) so that it cannot be easily pulled away from its location at all times!
It might not always be possible to have your boat secured, though, and then try storing them where they will not catch attention – like under bushes or trees! This also protects it when high winds come through by preventing branches from falling onto the vessel, which could cause damage. Here are some other things that you should keep in mind to keep your Kayak or canoe safe:
1. Note Your Hull Identification Number (HIN)
If you are in the US, it is essential to note that on your vessel, if something were to happen and they need to contact law enforcement for any reason, they will reference. There should be a sticker with this number located on one side of your kayak or canoe!
2. Report Any Theft To The Police And Make Sure You Have A Renter’s Policy
It’s always important when renting out your Kayaks or Canoes to make sure you have a renter’s insurance policy as well because, without it, crimes like theft could cost thousands of dollars worth of damage! It may seem annoying at first, but having a plan in place can save both time and money later on down the line.
3. Keep It Out Of Sight
The best and easiest thing you can do is to keep your canoe or Kayak out of sight as much as possible. This could be by tying it off to a bush or tree, laying them under other boats, etc. that way, no one will know what you have in there!
4. Buy Specialist Kayak Insurance
You can also check your homeowner’s insurance policy as they may offer some coverage for kayaks or canoes. If not, you could consider buying specialist Kayak Insurance to protect your vessel from theft and other risks!
5. Tying Down Your Kayak Using Ropes Or Bungees
If your Kayak doesn’t have any locking system in place, then you need to tie it down using ropes or bungee chords. This can be done by tying one end of the rope around a tree, pier post, pole, etc., and then securing the other side to an anchor point on your boat like a handle. You want to make sure that both ends are secure, so depending on how big your vehicle is, you may need more than one strap! And don’t forget – never use anything metal when taking this step as they will rust over time.
Breaking The Lock
If someone really wants to steal your Kayak, there are ways they can get around locked pins or straps. One way is by breaking the lock with tools such as a wrench which then allows them easy access into your vessel! This method also leaves marks on where they used their tool- So if something like this happens to you, please report it immediately to local law enforcement!
6 Best Kayak Locks To Lock Up Your Kayak
It is vital to choose the right locking system for your Kayak as it can make or break the security of your kayak or canoe! There are different types of kayaks and several different locking systems that work for each kind of Kayak.
For example, if you are renting a hard-shell aluminum boat, then what will be best is to buy the carabiners and locks on the ends of tubing – this ensures safe transportation!
Also, there’s something called an “overboard loop,” which can make your vessels theft-proof by tying it off to an anchor point such as handles or bungees to prevent pulling away from its location! This loop should be at least 30 feet long so that no one can pull out the vessel with them.
Best Kayak Cable Locks
A cable lock is a type of theft-proofing system designed for kayaks or canoes. Cable locks are specifically helpful because they allow the person to go on land without worrying about their boat being stolen in their absence. These unique cables have loops that loop around your vessel and then wrap tightly so that a thief cannot remove it from its location. They also come with an end hook which means you will not need anything else like carabiners, etc.!
1. Seattle Sports Cradle Cable Lock For Kayaks
The Seattle Sports Cradle Cable Lock is a versatile kayak lock that is easy to use. Its durable and vinyl sheathed cable protects your valuable investment from corrosion while preventing scratches on your craft or vehicle as well.
It’s compatible with cradles, roof racks, wall mounts, and any solid anchor point you can find. This peace of mind purchase will deter thieves in the process for what they’re looking for – an expensive car stereo system!
2. Suspenz Universal Kayak Locking System
Nobody wants to strap 10 pounds of bulky locks onto their Kayak, just if they want to stop and take a break from paddling. That’s where the Suspenz Universal Kayak Locking System, with its quick-release system, saves the day.
With the 14″ extension poles, you can reach anywhere on your Kayak. Use it for your cabin roof, tree branches, or even a brick fireplace mantel – as long as it’s stationary! Set up is a breeze: clamps attach quickly without tools, in seconds freeing you up to explore nature wherever her paths might lead.
3. Lasso The Original Kayak Cable Lock
Ever wished you could carry around your Kayak in much the same way as a hiker has their backpack? Turn your wishes into reality with Lasso, The Original Kayak Cable Lock! This versatile cable lock keeps your investment safe and secure from prying hands anywhere on land or in the water.
Whether car-camping, backpacking, or paddling up remote creeks to reach new explorations, never worry about where you will store when not in use again. With such peace of mind and happiness that comes with an investment like this one, it is easy for hikers to say goodbye to worry and hello more happy times spent exploring our world’s natural wonders.
Best Kayak Locking Straps
Locking straps are a type of theft-proofing system designed for kayaks. Locking straps can be helpful because they allow the person to go on land without having to worry about their boat being stolen in their absence. These unique straps wrap around your vessel and then loop it tightly so that anyone cannot remove it from its location.
1. Ratchet Tie Down Straps
Whether you’re packing up a small kayak or hauling somebody’s muddy canoe in from the alley, ratchet tie-downs are the best way to ensure your cargo is safe and secure. These rugged 15-footer straps are made of durable polyester with 1,500 lb break strength for dependable security.
They’ve got easy ergonomic handles and ‘s’ hooks for quick and reliable fastening. You’ll even get bungee cords as a bonus! Never again worry about transporting your boat while exploring the rocky waterscape with abandon—pack this set of four versatile straps today!
2. Onefeng Sports Lockable Tie Down Strap
The Onefeng Sports Lockable Tie Down Strap will do an excellent job of keeping your cargo in place and preventing damage. Made with 1″ Dura Nylon, these tie downs are sure to keep any boat, Kayak, or SUP locked down securely as you travel. These straps are designed to easily lock up with a key that can be turned from the outside for safety reasons. Unlike other lockable straps on the market, these also enable you to install them quickly by locking one end into position before attaching your bike or gear; while remaining within reach at all times for convenience.
3. Thule Lockable Straps For Kayaks
Thule Lockable Straps For Kayaks are a set of cables attached to nylon inside rubber housing. I know it sounds all serious, but hear me out. They hold the end of your Kayak in place – securing it from big waves and wind with their one-key lock cylinders that only you have the key for. These bad boys can even be adjusted to any length, so they’ll work on anything! Let’s not forget about reliability: if there is water or mud on your Kayak, don’t worry; these straps are corrosion resistant and coated in pretty tough rubber protection.
Best part? You get 2 One-Key lock cylinders with this strap kit, meaning you won’t go hungry anytime soon 😉
How To Lock Your Kayak: Conclusion
I hope this article has helped you figure out how to lock your Kayak and what type of locks are best for protecting your investment. If you have any questions that we didn’t answer in the post, feel free to contact us anytime! We would love to hear from you about our content or anything else relating to hiking gear.
