Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

Bad ideas need coverage to warn folks, and the idea of creating a kayak fishing stabilizer or outrigger sounded exciting but was a total failure when put to a real test. Do not try to make a stabilizer using your rod holder! Hey! This is how NOT to do it - so please do not tell me the idea is wrong! A version of this concept was actually sold commercially! Note: One person complained about this test and pointed to the fact that Yak-Gear sells stabilizers just like this as proof that they are not a bad idea. Yak-Gear used to use Scotty 350 rod holders to attach the stabilizer to the boat. The 2017 version on the YakGear site shows they redesigned their stabilizer to eliminate the rod holder. Looks like they use a RAM type mount directly connected to a Scotty mount. Kayak recovery videos in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8egn41J7Go-uI0UCbLAhsXm-ioiyTSdd Subscribe to Kayak Hacks: https://goo.gl/BAxRXd Follow on Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/103521207406221518268/+KayakhacksFishing High quality, low-cost spinning rods and reels from Cadence Fishing: http://tinyurl.com/cadencefishing 10% discount code for Cadence: kayakhacks-10off *Note - Cadence link is an affiliate link, and I told Cadence to take anything earned through that link and apply it to their mission of giving free rods/reels to kids charities. Let's get kids fishing! #GoFishingGiveBack The Kayak Hacks Fishing channel covers kayak, wading, shoreline, spin and fly fishing. It features interesting gear mods to make kayak fishing more comfortable, efficient and enjoyable. In addition, I share many tips, tricks and "how tos" for more effective spin and fly fishing regardless of whether you are fishing from a boat or on your feet. Please subscribe! Thanks! Steve's CatchGuide series of fishing books is available on Amazon: Wade and Shoreline Fishing the Potomac River for Smallmouth Bass - http://amzn.to/1FwhvjG Maryland Trout Fishing - http://amzn.to/1L0fAEb Wade Fishing the Rappahannock River of Virginia - http://amzn.to/1L0fFb8 Wade Fishing the Rapidan River of Virginia - http://amzn.to/1L0fH2z Wade Fishing the North Branch of the Potomac - http://amzn.to/1ViIzK7 Read Steve's columns in: Southern Trout Magazine - http://www.southerntrout.com/ Southern Kayak Fishing - http://www.sokayakfishing.com/ Liability Disclaimer and Warning: In short, you accept all risk of using any ideas presented in this video. Do not apply any suggestion if it will ruin the appearance, function or structural integrity of your kayak. You are solely responsible to determine if the ideas expressed are appropriate for your boat and we disclaim any responsibility for your actions and decisions. Nothing in this video creates any expressed or implied warranty or guarantees a result. You are responsible for the safe operation of tools and any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of those tools or from the information contained in this video is 100% your responsibility. We shall not be held liable in any way or manner for errors, misleading or incorrect information. If you find an error, please notify us right away using the contact form for the channel. It goes without saying that fishing is dangerous as a result of the fast water, slick rocks and other hazards that occur at random, unexpected places. You need to exercise caution, particularly in the spring when the water is high or during rapid changes in tide, before you fish anywhere. You should always wear a life vest when fishing. In addition, a wading staff will help you keep your balance as you walk on the shoreline or wade. The bottom line is that you must make your own judgment in terms of acceptable behavior and risk and not rely on the opinions expressed here. The regulations governing legal access to fishing locations may change at any time and it is your responsibility to understand the law. Nothing expressed should be construed as encouraging you to trespass on private property or violate a regulation.

Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way! sentiment_very_dissatisfied 115

Kayak 8 years ago 108,816 views

Bad ideas need coverage to warn folks, and the idea of creating a kayak fishing stabilizer or outrigger sounded exciting but was a total failure when put to a real test. Do not try to make a stabilizer using your rod holder! Hey! This is how NOT to do it - so please do not tell me the idea is wrong! A version of this concept was actually sold commercially! Note: One person complained about this test and pointed to the fact that Yak-Gear sells stabilizers just like this as proof that they are not a bad idea. Yak-Gear used to use Scotty 350 rod holders to attach the stabilizer to the boat. The 2017 version on the YakGear site shows they redesigned their stabilizer to eliminate the rod holder. Looks like they use a RAM type mount directly connected to a Scotty mount. Kayak recovery videos in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8egn41J7Go-uI0UCbLAhsXm-ioiyTSdd Subscribe to Kayak Hacks: https://goo.gl/BAxRXd Follow on Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/103521207406221518268/+KayakhacksFishing High quality, low-cost spinning rods and reels from Cadence Fishing: http://tinyurl.com/cadencefishing 10% discount code for Cadence: kayakhacks-10off *Note - Cadence link is an affiliate link, and I told Cadence to take anything earned through that link and apply it to their mission of giving free rods/reels to kids charities. Let's get kids fishing! #GoFishingGiveBack The Kayak Hacks Fishing channel covers kayak, wading, shoreline, spin and fly fishing. It features interesting gear mods to make kayak fishing more comfortable, efficient and enjoyable. In addition, I share many tips, tricks and "how tos" for more effective spin and fly fishing regardless of whether you are fishing from a boat or on your feet. Please subscribe! Thanks! Steve's CatchGuide series of fishing books is available on Amazon: Wade and Shoreline Fishing the Potomac River for Smallmouth Bass - http://amzn.to/1FwhvjG Maryland Trout Fishing - http://amzn.to/1L0fAEb Wade Fishing the Rappahannock River of Virginia - http://amzn.to/1L0fFb8 Wade Fishing the Rapidan River of Virginia - http://amzn.to/1L0fH2z Wade Fishing the North Branch of the Potomac - http://amzn.to/1ViIzK7 Read Steve's columns in: Southern Trout Magazine - http://www.southerntrout.com/ Southern Kayak Fishing - http://www.sokayakfishing.com/ Liability Disclaimer and Warning: In short, you accept all risk of using any ideas presented in this video. Do not apply any suggestion if it will ruin the appearance, function or structural integrity of your kayak. You are solely responsible to determine if the ideas expressed are appropriate for your boat and we disclaim any responsibility for your actions and decisions. Nothing in this video creates any expressed or implied warranty or guarantees a result. You are responsible for the safe operation of tools and any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of those tools or from the information contained in this video is 100% your responsibility. We shall not be held liable in any way or manner for errors, misleading or incorrect information. If you find an error, please notify us right away using the contact form for the channel. It goes without saying that fishing is dangerous as a result of the fast water, slick rocks and other hazards that occur at random, unexpected places. You need to exercise caution, particularly in the spring when the water is high or during rapid changes in tide, before you fish anywhere. You should always wear a life vest when fishing. In addition, a wading staff will help you keep your balance as you walk on the shoreline or wade. The bottom line is that you must make your own judgment in terms of acceptable behavior and risk and not rely on the opinions expressed here. The regulations governing legal access to fishing locations may change at any time and it is your responsibility to understand the law. Nothing expressed should be construed as encouraging you to trespass on private property or violate a regulation.

Show More

Advertising
LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard

LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard

Shop now »
NOCO Genius GEN5X2, 2-Bank, 10A (5A/Bank) Smart Marine Battery Chargers

NOCO Genius GEN5X2, 2-Bank, 10A (5A/Bank) Smart Marine Battery Charger

Shop now »
ADVERTISING
LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard

LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard

Shop now »
NOCO Genius GEN5X2, 2-Bank, 10A (5A/Bank) Smart Marine Battery Chargers

NOCO Genius GEN5X2, 2-Bank, 10A (5A/Bank) Smart Marine Battery Charger

Shop now »
RHINO USA Boat Trailer Transom Straps (2PK)

RHINO USA Boat Trailer Transom Straps (2PK)

Shop now »
LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder

LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder

Shop now »
Seaview 180 V3 Full Face Snorkel Mask

Seaview 180 V3 Full Face Snorkel Mask

Shop now »

Most popular comments
for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Hey! This is how NOT to do it - so please do not tell me the idea is wrong! A version of this concept was actually sold commercially! For more kayak recovery videos, check out this playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8egn41J7Go-uI0UCbLAhsXm-ioiyTSdd
Richard Northrup
Richard Northrup - 6 years ago
So what about it those same stabilizers are mounted better and not to a flimsy rod holder track mount?
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
I think other folks have videos that show better solutions. However, the real solution is to get a kayak that does not need these things :-)
Rozlan Abd Majid
Rozlan Abd Majid - 6 years ago
This is the most used design of Self Distruck Outrigger ! Sad, they never learnt !
FREEDOMFIENDNEWS
FREEDOMFIENDNEWS - 6 years ago
Why not put the bar all the way across then bend the tips
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
That might work, but this video is about how not to do it.
Christopher Daigrepont
Christopher Daigrepont - 6 years ago
you are mounting your stabilizers in the wrong place. And your floats are inferior. Stabilization is a good thing.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Yes. This video is about how NOT to do it
Dave Blair
Dave Blair - 6 years ago
It's mounted wrong. Name of video should be "don't mount a stabilizer the way I did". I built my own stabilizers and it works perfectly I'm not concerned at all. So I'm sorry you're not capable of using stabilizers on your kayak, but the rest of us who choose to aren't wrong sir.
Blair Cox
Blair Cox - 6 years ago
+Kayak Hacks Fishing yeah but you need to back it up with right ways and back it with test comparisons. Otherwise your video does come across as simply complaining. Yes, I've read all your comments setting up the video and its purpose.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Yes! I think your suggestion is exactly what this video is about. Do not do it this way. The intent of the video was not to try and do it right but show a common mistake in mounting.
diaz ag
diaz ag - 6 years ago
Sir thats not a stabilizer holder that is a rod holder.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Exactly! As I note in the video... it is a bad idea. Yak-Gear used to use Scotty 350 rod holders to attach the stabilizer to the boat. I think somebody else still does that. I wanted to show why this would fail.
Gene Webb
Gene Webb - 6 years ago
If you build your outriggers out of 2” Sch 40 PVC pipe and use a heavy duty rod holder and brace across the kayak sides so the kayak doesn’t bend inward then these work great!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Thanks for that improvement advice. As the video title says - don't make it the way I show!
BearsEarsRanch
BearsEarsRanch - 6 years ago
I wouldn't think those rod holders would support a lot of weight. My outriggers for my canoe have 2 inch PVC from pontoon to pontoon, made of 6 inch PVC and that is lashed securely to the amidship thwart. I have yet to be able to tip over.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
I agree - that is why you should not make stabilizers this way.

10. comment for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

robert lombardo
robert lombardo - 6 years ago
Hello I’m not a boater,you idea was ok but your angle of the dangle was wrong. Why would you think that long and angle would not cause a F-up to your boat. Straight 90’ Mount would have worked better. Even those crazy islanders with there skate board boats have long out riggers but the floats hit the water at a 90’ Force . Start watching some reruns of 5’o to see real paddles in action.
There’s no such thing as a bad idea,only a thought that needs work.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Yes, exactly! It is a bad idea to make it this way!
Chaos Paddlers
Chaos Paddlers - 6 years ago
Haha I did sorta the same thing with my paddle board
Harrison Brown
Harrison Brown - 6 years ago
First off you don't use pool noodles you use crab bouys, second you don't use the cheapest dog holder you can find and you bolt the pc to the rod holders, and thirdly you bolt the rod holders to a sturdy place on your kayak not the flimsy sides that flex. THIS DOES WORK IF YOU DO IT RIGHT!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
I am glad you agree with me. As the video says, this is not the way to do it.
Tactical Kayak
Tactical Kayak - 6 years ago
cool video.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Thanks! Appreciate it!
Jesse Peterson
Jesse Peterson - 6 years ago
I love your ideas on this! I agree, these should never be used. Here are is a video of the homemade outriggers I made for my canoe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElATQzA45n4 I also have a video it in the water. Mine wont tip over!!
Fishnfreak04
Fishnfreak04 - 6 years ago
You could use bouys
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
Right. Not having a fixed bracket is why this method fails.
Fishnfreak04
Fishnfreak04 - 6 years ago
Yeah.... I’m saying like fix a bracket to the kayak
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
The Scotty rod holder would still snap. I think that is why Yak-Gear no longer sells this type of stabilizer. They moved to RAM mounts.
Detroit home inspectors
Detroit home inspectors - 6 years ago
I have to work to tip mine.  Don't need stabilizers.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVQFz0qxbII
Ted
Ted - 6 years ago
What moron would even try this
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 6 years ago
You would be surprised. And... YakGear actually sold a system based on this concept for years. They changed it to use a RAM mount - but I do not think that would make it any better.
KELLY HARMON
KELLY HARMON - 7 years ago
This is going to be me when I retire trying silly stuff and posting it on YouTube
John's Marine Solutions
John's Marine Solutions - 7 years ago
Those plastic rails don't cut the mustard. Way too much flex. I CNC machine the rails with keyhole slots on the bottom for easy of installation for ATS for their aftermarket Rigid Rail Systems for the NuCanoe Kayaks. The really work great when lateral loads are applied such as rod holders.
http://aquaterrasportsusa.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=74_77&product_id=104

ATS also manufacturers a Rod Rack. When the Rod Rack is used in conjunction with the Rigid Rail System you have a winning RIGID combination.

http://aquaterrasportsusa.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=70&product_id=82

John
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Great advice for those who want to avoid the problem! Thanks

20. comment for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

Steve Tautog
Steve Tautog - 7 years ago
One thing I can say for sure is that there were only 2 points of contact with the kayak when you had the option to secure 4 points
that was a 50% error
right?
then the other fail was by the rod holder , if I am right by eliminating the rod holder you can make that connection tighter
am I right?
are you aware that Scotty currently sells the 302 which is basically your idea
so that makes you the true inventor
or you both hit on the idea independently
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Ok. That will avoid the problem with the track pulling out, but, on my test, the rod holder failed as well. Check out the Yakgear solution with a RAM mount - that might get around the issue of the rod holder.
Steve Tautog
Steve Tautog - 7 years ago
right
uh sorry I was unclear
by two points I was referring to the place where the track system held the mount at only two places
currently, as i mentioned I am installing the Scotty stabilizers whose base has FOUR points to both the kayak and the pontoon
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
By two points, did you mean the other rod holder? I knew I was going to tip to the left, so I did not bother to attach it. I do think the rod holder is the point of failure. I noticed YakGear changed their design to eliminate the rod holder. They go direct to the mount now. My bottom line is that a fishing kayak should not need a stabilizer. With so many good choices that are wide and stable being made these days, it would be better to just get one that does not have the issue.
Greg Black
Greg Black - 7 years ago
I have a 30" SIT Kayak I used plastic electrical conduit pvc tees 4 crab floats some glue 4 swing pins the span is 42" it provides 36 pounds of bouncy on each side and works fine. Up to paddle,down to stand and fish or use my $14 real tree seat.
J. Wesley Stevenson
J. Wesley Stevenson - 7 years ago
Check out Expandacraft modular outrigger kit.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Always good to see a solid solution that avoids the design issues of this approach!
TEXASCREED
TEXASCREED - 7 years ago
not the design it's the parts used we use flag holders they are wind rated and with a screw through the pipe they cannot come out , build them right and you will not have this problem.
TEXASCREED
TEXASCREED - 7 years ago
Agree but I have seen it work as well with wood added to the base for strength and a fly screw for the pole,
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Yep. Don't make one this way.
Geo Prospector
Geo Prospector - 7 years ago
Thats a bad mount man - not a bad idea to have those. You mounted them in the WRONG place!!!! Think LOGICALLY !!!!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Where would you have put them? I just looked at where Scotty puts their system and it is in the same place (note they use the same type of mount method as their rod holders - the one that failed in the video) - check out the pictures at http://www.austinkayak.com/products/807/Scotty-Kayak-Stabilizer-302.html
jimboslice762
jimboslice762 - 7 years ago
duuuuuhhhhh. your design is the problem.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Say what? I am pretty clear it is a bad idea. The new YakGear version came out long after the video was posted and YouTube does not allow you to update an existing video.
MichaelMoore44
MichaelMoore44 - 7 years ago
Why don't you say this in your video? Your video sounds like you are trying to say it is a bad idea altogether.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I agree. But, before you go "duuuuhhh," recognize that this design was actually sold commercially by YakGear before they updated their product to remove the rod holder and is still sold by Scotty... saw the kit in my local kayak shop this month. That is why I made the video - to show why it is a bad idea.
Oldclimber Amb
Oldclimber Amb - 7 years ago
You needed some type of a cross piece between the rod holders so they could support each other.
Oldclimber Amb
Oldclimber Amb - 7 years ago
I'm glad you think so, as I believe all of the observations are valid. And thanks for the lookout on the " ... still sold by another.", being that I have a kayak or two, and have toyed with the idea of outriggers to enable me to stand in the smaller one (8' 6").
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Your reply appeals to my engineering background! Great additional info. Personally, I am "out of the market" for a stabilizer. I made the video after being suspicious about the strength of the older version of this set up that was sold commercially by one vendor and still sold by another.
Oldclimber Amb
Oldclimber Amb - 7 years ago
It depends upon how close the shear strength/stiffness of the rod holder was to the overall/top end load. If it was close enough to what you needed, and you did have to go pretty far over to get it to fail, the similar stiffness (but in opposite direction of flex) would have added to the SYSTEM's overall capacity to absorb transverse stress. But let's not forget stress along the axis of boat due to a - friction/drag while boat is in motion, b - extraordinary stress in that axis due to impact of the bottom, dock, branches of sunken trees, etc. Stress (a) would cause some temporary deformation of the system due to drag, and likely cause problems with trim, and a (b) scenario might cause severe trim problems given some degree of permanent deformation.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
That might have worked.
Chris W
Chris W - 7 years ago
I had great success with pvc and pool noodles on my 17ft canoe. They sat a little higher than they would on a kayak but I bet it could be adapted. I would love to send you some pictures.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
odd... it's there. Anyway... steve@kayakhacks.com
Chris W
Chris W - 7 years ago
Kayak Hacks Fishing I looked in the about tab but didn't see your email.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Sure - my email is in the About tab on the channel.
James Warmbrod
James Warmbrod - 7 years ago
awesome video!!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
thanks
Knight526806
Knight526806 - 7 years ago
I would like to try this same experiment with some Scotty Rocket style rod holders, and attach them to the hull of the kayak with well nuts; I think attaching any type of outrigger to your mounting rail simply won't work.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I hear you! There may be other solutions out there on YouTube...
Knight526806
Knight526806 - 7 years ago
I didn't think about that, your probably right in that the built in rod holders would probably be the only ones strong enough. But that's too much of a sacrifice for me; those rod holders have their own job haha. I have a cheap walmart fishing kayak, and I was trying to find a way to cheaply modify it to be able to be stable enough to stand in.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I agree - the rail is just going to tear away. I noticed that Yak Gear stopped doing the rod holder solution (they used to use Scotty 350 holders) and now permanently attach to a Scotty mount. I think they use a RAM attachment. My assumption is the RAM ball would give way before tearing out the holder. i would be cautious on the well nuts. The force was pretty substantial if you force a total tip like I did. I think they would pull out. Other guys use the built in rod holders and I think those are the only ones with enough strength.

30. comment for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

TridentDriver1987
TridentDriver1987 - 7 years ago
All outriggers are a bad idea. If you cant balance a fat sit on top fishing kayak you should just buy a boat.
romansten9
romansten9 - 7 years ago
TridentDriver1987 They can be handy, even for experts. Say in large waves, or even in calm if you have under a sail. The wind power is easier to control with outriggers
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
+TridentDriver1987 I have come to the same conclusion
Broke Yakin
Broke Yakin - 7 years ago
Looks like the pvc and pool noodle contraption worked fine, just not the attachment method.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I can't take credit for it. They never reached out to me. But, I am glad they did.
Broke Yakin
Broke Yakin - 7 years ago
Kayak Hacks Fishing They do a decent job of exploiting inexperienced consumers. It's nice to hear that they were willing to make a change in this case.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Yes. The purpose was to warn folks about using rod holders. Yak-Gear used to use Scotty 350 rod holders to attach the outrigger they sold for $170. Thankfully, and maybe because of this video, they updated their design to offer a more permanent attaching point.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Hey! Before harassing me about how bad an idea this is, READ the title of the video. This is how NOT to do it. Also, note that YAK-GEAR USED TO SELL AN OUTRIGGER USING A SCOTTY 350 ROD HOLDER as the way to attach it. Thankfully, they no longer sell that model. Comments on better ways are welcome - just agree that this way is bad and share your recommendations for the better way.
Bill Cheung
Bill Cheung - 7 years ago
Lmao hahahaha. How can it work if it's not fixed solid on you kayak ???
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Do not be misled by the one on the right that came off. I knew I was going to flip to the left and that was on solid. I just did not bother to fix the other one.
334 Outdoors
334 Outdoors - 7 years ago
I have them but rarely use them but they go in permanent rod built in rod holders
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I think your solution is much better.
Zac Estrada
Zac Estrada - 7 years ago
For staters you were using the wrong kind of rod holders. The rod holder you were useing are too flexiable. it's best to use the flush mount holders that come on many fishing kayaks
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Yes, glad you agree with the title of the video on how not to do this. I think the flush mounts would work a lot better.
Jerry Thao
Jerry Thao - 7 years ago
i replayed it over a couple times and in actuality, the stabilizers was not as bad as you mentioned. i held up a tab bit longer than without
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I guess my perspective is based on answering the question of would they prevent a tip if you lost balance. I don't think so. Unlike the real outriggers you see on some boats, I do not think they have enough surface area to prevent a tip. And... the potential for ripping out your utility track is real if you do go over.
Ratdog 305
Ratdog 305 - 7 years ago
Its an honest man who can admit his mistakes! So lets see what you did come up with.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I decided not to use stabilizers... rather, just be careful. :-)
Oz Muz Spits
Oz Muz Spits - 7 years ago
I think it mainly failed due to this design and where he mounted it plus he didn't even mount the rods firmly. It was pretty dumb mounting the stabilisers on the weakest section of the Kayak where mounting it up front on the bulky solid section would have been better. I wouldn't avoid using professionally made stabilisers.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Exactly. That is why I did the video. Do not do it this way.
Get Off Your Bass And Lets Fish
Get Off Your Bass And Lets Fish - 7 years ago
I think you were the only person EVER to use that fishing rod holder.

It works with a straight pvc from one side to the other.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Actually, YakGear sells a stabilizer based on this idea. After doing this test, I would not spend the $200 it costs.
Will Reaves
Will Reaves - 7 years ago
Yeah how much did that cost to make
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Not counting the rod holders I already had, it probably cost $15
Will Reaves
Will Reaves - 7 years ago
That is not how you do it make better ones
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Exactly right. That was the purpose of the video.
Igou Outdoors
Igou Outdoors - 7 years ago
This hak pertains to certain applications better than others, I agree. I really enjoy your content. Hope the vids keep coming. I'm a recent sub but will be loyal one now that I have watched a few of your vids. Cheers!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I appreciate your feedback and I have a backlog of vids - so they will keep rolling out twice a week. Thanks!
Killergt40 Rowe
Killergt40 Rowe - 8 years ago
Hey thanks for the great video and warning! I thought about use rod holders at one stage to mount stabilizers to my Kayak ! but ended up putting stabilizers on my canoe with great success! did use PVC here is a link if your interested https://youtu.be/wA9CGrNSyN8
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Interesting!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Those will definitely work! I liked the addition of the pool noodles on the gunwales - I bet those make the canoe much easier to flip back over.
Dave Dube
Dave Dube - 8 years ago
With my scotty rod holder, and the way I made it, this won't happen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2NcIZThMyg
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Well, I did stress it hard by intentionally tipping over. That is what probably broke it loose.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Thanks!
Dave Dube
Dave Dube - 8 years ago
You got a really nice channel Kayak Hacks Fishing, nice work!
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
My Scotty was just attached using the utility track - I like how you bolted the entire mount to the kayak. The other problem I had was that the Scotty would break loose at the head when under stress as I tipped the kayak. Did you run into that problem?
Fred Fable
Fred Fable - 8 years ago
Great video warning!!!!THANK YOU SIR!!!
Dylan Zrim
Dylan Zrim - 7 years ago
Kayak Hacks Fishing but this video confirmed my suspicions. If the two stabilisers were joined at the middle, they would somewhat work
Dylan Zrim
Dylan Zrim - 7 years ago
Kayak Hacks Fishing I am designing a system that people will drool over, and it's just pvc.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Definitely do not try this method!
Unkle Fritz
Unkle Fritz - 8 years ago
what kayak??????????? how much do you weight...
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
It is a Native Ultimate 14.5 footer and I weigh 177.
Jason Acuff
Jason Acuff - 8 years ago
Mounting outriggers on a kayak or canoe in general is not a bad idea. anyone with any mechanical sense would never build anything the way this particular set up was designed. Who would think using unstable, flemzy plastic rod holders that stick out 10-11" would even remotely be worthy of out rigger construction?....noone with any logical or practical sense. I've mounted 50lb thrust trolling motors on a board with pipes going down into recessed rod holders with no problems...it just takes a little thinking, about materials rigidity...good luck
Cuivre
Cuivre - 7 years ago
My own saying about kayaks is "Speed, Lightness or Stability- pick only TWO!" (I borrowed from the "Fast", "Quality" or "Price" business truism). Some folks want stability after the other two factors have been chosen as a priority. The stabilizers slow down the yak and add weight-thus removing some of the "lightness" AND "speed". If the stabilizers are easily removable, then people may have the ability to swap out assets, depending on the needs of the day.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
I would not. They attach to Scotty Rod holders just like my test. Instead of getting outriggers, I recommend getting a more stable kayak that does not need them. I think outriggers are left over from before fishing kayaks came into their own and people used tippy regular kayaks for fishing.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 7 years ago
Cuivre Yes, they do
Cuivre
Cuivre - 7 years ago
There are lots of people who do foolish things. You likely saved a few of them from this. Doesn't Yak-Gear actually SELL outriggers based on these types of mounts?
http://www.austinkayak.com/products/8655/Yak-Gear-Outriggers.html
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
+Alex Brada ... but people have sent me videos arguing that their use of rod holders for this actually works. The difference is they have not tested their solution. Hopefully, this video makes them think twice.
Alex Jordan
Alex Jordan - 8 years ago
Wrong, he gets it, the point is, no one in their right mind would try and use rod holders for mounts.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
You might have missed the point of the video... it was to show people why this approach is a bad idea. Appreciate your agreement with that!
william roberts
william roberts - 8 years ago
this is the first video that shows the stuff in action. you must be polish. I never met a dumb polak. HaHaHa
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
YakGear used to sell outriggers made like this for $200. They have been "out of stock" for the last few months. I wonder if they had complaints...
Bobby Ingram
Bobby Ingram - 8 years ago
Good video of peoples 'test' might be the best videos for the builder to study.
Thanks dude.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
The other guys need to test their solutions as well :-)
allen reed
allen reed - 8 years ago
Hey fella i love the channel, and watching other ones I realized u were on the Cape Fear.... I was wondering if you knew how far up river you have to go before it is fresh enough to drink
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
I am not sure, but think Dam 1 would be the fall line that stops the tidal flow.

50. comment for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

Chris Farris
Chris Farris - 8 years ago
Thanks for the video. This my first season with a fishing kayak and I appreciate all the information I can find.

It appears they failed due to
1) use of a non-locking rod holder, allowing the holder to come loose from the base
2) lack of locking pins to secure the pipe to the rod holder
3) attachment of the rod holders to a utility track not designed for those forces
I've had good luck so far adapting a design I found available for sale online. I used YakAttack Gear Tracs securely mounted to the kayak, slightly larger bullet floats, and Scotty 241L mounts with 350 holders, drilled for locking pins. I can take my dog along, stand up if I need to, and paddle through wakes no problem. My kayak is a Pelican The Catch 120.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
+Chris Farris That's what YouTube is good for!
Chris Farris
Chris Farris - 8 years ago
+Kayak Hacks Fishing
I can't really claim any credit, I just copied some things I saw people doing here already. I can't remember who, but someone is selling them pre-built for around $180. By the time I bought all the tracks and parts I probably wasn't too far off, but the tracks are being used for other things as well, so I'd have bought them anyway. Actually, I probably could have bought a kayak already completely outfitted for fishing and spent about the same, but I like doing things myself and I learn a lot. Thanks again for the interesting videos.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Glad you solved the problem safely!
Norman Stephan
Norman Stephan - 8 years ago
I think the idea for the stabilizer is to stop the wobble, not stop the flip. I think it would be best if you tested how it rocks when you first step in or stand up. Most stabilizers, short of pontoons, will allow a flip. If they are shorter, there is less stress on the joints but would still REDUCE the wobble. What pool noodle have you tested and proven to work?
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
I have not gone beyond this video. My kayak if very stable and does not need outriggers. Good point on wobble.
Sharif Salih
Sharif Salih - 8 years ago
I think the distinction to make is flush mount rod holders. Those should be able to support the forces exerted. But yeah, the added loss of use of the Scotty rod holder should be enough to make it a no go.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Some of the other vids show folks using the built in rod holders and I think those configurations would be stronger. The real issue with anything mounted to the utility track is that the track will break loose. I think mine was going to go, but the scotty snapped first... thankfully.
Kyle Kishbaugh
Kyle Kishbaugh - 8 years ago
hhhmmmm what if you mount them both behind the seat and ran a single piece of pvc throuhg both schottys and then two elbows to get water level??? love the vids buddy
Kyle Kishbaugh
Kyle Kishbaugh - 8 years ago
ya those tracks are pretty weak with onlly two screws need all four bolt behind seat into hull not tracks
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
From what I saw, even if the scotties could be rigged as you describe, the utility track would pull away. I was lucky the scotty gave way or my track would have been pulled out. I have seen other vids where guys put the pvc into the built in rod holders and I believe that would be a better, more stable way to go.
BloodSweatnBass
BloodSweatnBass - 8 years ago
Great tip
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Good to know what not to do :-)
ryguy11794
ryguy11794 - 8 years ago
i like videos like this one here- like a myth busters to some of the mods out there people actually do but do not think through.
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
You just summarized a key mission of the channel! I have a playlist of the tests I have done so far. Thanks!
Nate Shugars
Nate Shugars - 8 years ago
100% agree.
sling shoter
sling shoter - 7 years ago
you would do better to hot glue crab trap floats to the kayak then that lol
Kayak Hacks Fishing
Kayak Hacks Fishing - 8 years ago
Some things are just really bad ideas!

Similar videos
for Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

Related videos
to Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

About Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!

The "Don't Make a Kayak Fishing Stabilizer / Outrigger this Way!" video is part of the kayaking category, which contains similar videos like this one.

Subscribe hot viral Aquatic videos!