When it comes to transporting your fishing kayak, the choice between a roof rack and a bed rack can significantly impact the ease, safety, and security of your journey. This comprehensive guide will explore the key considerations, step-by-step instructions, and DIY solutions to help you make an informed decision on the best fishing kayak truck rack for your needs.
What are the Key Considerations for Choosing Between Roof Racks and Bed Racks?
What is the Weight Capacity and Compatibility of the Rack System?
Ensuring the rack system can handle the weight of your fishing kayak is crucial. Most fishing kayaks weigh around 60-80 pounds, and the rack should be rated to support this weight. Additionally, the rack must be compatible with your vehicle, whether it’s a roof rack system that fits your car’s make and model or a bed rack that accommodates the length and configuration of your truck bed.
How Easy is it to Access and Load the Kayak?
Roof racks can be more challenging to load, as you’ll need to lift the kayak over the vehicle. However, some roof rack designs, like J-Style racks and full-assist racks, can make this process easier. Bed racks, on the other hand, generally offer a more convenient loading experience, as you can simply slide the kayak into the truck bed.
How Stable and Secure is the Kayak During Transport?
Proper tie-down and securing methods are essential for both roof racks and bed racks. For roof racks, you’ll need to use straps designed for kayaks and consider additional support like foam blocks or pads. For bed racks, use tie-down straps through the grab handles of the kayak to secure it, and if the kayak extends beyond the bed, use a hitch extender and ensure visibility with a flag or reflective tape.
How to Securely Load and Tie Down a Long Fishing Kayak in a Truck Bed?
- Position the Kayak: Slide the kayak into the truck bed, ensuring it is centered and balanced. If the kayak extends beyond the bed, use a hitch extender for stability.
- Load Gear: Place any gear inside the bed to keep weight centered and prevent the kayak from tipping.
- Tie Down: Use a strap through the grab handle to secure the kayak to the truck. Ensure the strap is tight but not over-tightened to avoid damaging the kayak.
- Visibility: If the kayak extends beyond the bed, attach a highly visible flag to the back to alert other drivers.
What are the Recommended Straps and Tie-Downs?
Prefer lashing straps over ratchet straps to avoid over-tightening, which can damage the kayak. The NRS Lashing Straps are a recommended option for their ease of use and safety.
Can I Create a Custom Kayak Truck Rack and Bed Extender?
Yes, you can create a DIY solution for a custom kayak truck rack and bed extender. Here’s what you’ll need:
Materials Needed
- Bed Extender: A bed extender like the T-Bone bed extender by Boonedox.
- PVC Pipes: 2″ PVC pipes for the cradle structure.
- Zip Ties: For securing the PVC pipes.
- Pool Noodles: For padding and protection.
- Indoor/Outdoor Carpet: For lining the cradle.
- Stainless Steel Screws: For assembling the structure.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Assemble the Cradle:
- Attach the PVC pipes over the bed extender to create a cradle structure. Ensure it is about 6-7 feet long to accommodate the kayak.
- Use zip ties to secure the PVC pipes to the bed extender.
- Add Padding and Protection:
- Line the cradle with indoor/outdoor carpet and place pool noodles for padding.
- Secure the Kayak:
- Use lashing straps to tie down the kayak to the truck, ensuring it is secure and balanced.
Best Practices and Measurements
- Length and Stability: Ensure the cradle is long enough to support the kayak and that the kayak does not extend too far beyond the bed. If it does, use a hitch extender and a flag for visibility.
- Costs: The cost will depend on the materials chosen but is generally more cost-effective than buying a commercial rack. Estimate around $100-$200 for materials.
Reference Links
- How to Transport Fishing Kayaks – Wired2Fish: This article provides comprehensive information on transporting fishing kayaks, including roof racks, bed racks, and trailers.
- Truck, Trailer, or Rooftop for Hauling Your Kayak – Reddit: This discussion on Reddit offers various user experiences and tips on choosing between truck beds, trailers, and roof racks.
- How To Make Your Own Kayak Truck Rack (For Easy Loading) – Salt Strong: This guide details a DIY project for creating a custom kayak truck rack and bed extender, including materials and step-by-step instructions.