DIY Kayak Scupper Plugs
When it comes to kayaking and those who participate in the sport, kayakers are known for coming up with some pretty amazing solutions for modifying their boats to meet their needs. Whether it is a custom fishing crate made from a plastic milk crate or adapting larger boat accessories to fit kayaks, no group is more creative than a kayaker. So why is that?
The roots of kayaking were those of a minimalist watersport that in the beginning could be accomplished with just a boat and a paddle which is where most kayak manufacturers stopped. However as time passed and gas prices soared, kayaks began to be a viable option to larger powerboats. Paddlers started to modify their kayaks to take on many of the roles of a larger boat but the industry was not there yet with a full line of accessories to support these modifications. Out of necessity and a lack of options, a kayak owner had to find ways to update their boats on their own. Kayak groups and forums became the hub of information exchange and how-to videos/posts on what could be achieved with just a little know-how and willingness to try.
Soon the kayak industry began to see companies launch full product lines based on these creative ideas where manufacturing quality and innovation would benefit the kayak owner. Many of these companies now sell their products directly to the kayak manufacturers so the finished kayak now arrives completely outfitted to the needs of the kayak buyer. The result is a fully engineered and though-out solution that works exactly as it should. Customers get a product they can count on and warranty that brings piece of mind. The DIY spirit is still very much alive in today’s kayak enthusiast and we celebrate that early drive to figure it out until something better came along. We also appreciate the various manufactures who have stepped up to make it much easier to just get out on the water and start enjoying the sport of kayaking.
So what about DIY scupper plugs? We may be biased but just like other kayak accessories, we believe that significant innovation and product research has went into moving to better and more thought-out solutions. There are still applications where a DIY scupper plug will fill the need and perform to a kayaker’s expectation as long as the pieces fall into place. Technologies like self-draining plugs are not easy to accomplish without significant research and development. Some paddlers may enjoy the process of designing their own valves but it is not for everyone. As of today we offer 5 different plug designs in 16 plug sizes and over 1,500 custom kits to support a vast array of kayak brands and models. If you simply want to plug your scupper holes and get out on the water we are here and ready to help in anyway we can.