Dry Box Modifications

I don’t use a crate on the kayak, I use a dry box. I love the fact the whatever is stored inside will remain dry, even when capsized (tried & tested). For the past few months I’ve taken a paddle float and bilge pump afloat with me, these being clipped onto or jammed under straps in an attempt to secure them to the kayak. The most important point was they were to hand in the event of an emergency.

Whilst I’ve been rigging the Hobie Outback I looked over the dry box to see how I could improve the current setup. I decided to wrap two long lengths of strong bungee cord around the crate using the rod holders and pad eyes to route and retain the bungee cord into position. This permits easy stowage of the paddle float and cutting board, allowing them to be removed in seconds if required. However, they are securely stowed and will remain in position during a capsize and the associated recovery.

I also took the opportunity to fit two anchor retainers at the rear of the box, one to store a spare anchor (if required) and the other to house the manual bilge pump. The bungee cord picks up on the anchor to keep it secured in place, the bilge pump is an interference fit and requires no additional securing.

A length of YakAttack’s GT90 GearTrac was fitted to the dry box. This innovative rail system permits the quick fitment of the YakAttack range of accessories. I’ve also modified my own homemade camera mounts to enable them to utilise this rail system. It’s extremely sturdy and provides a very solid mounting point for accessories.

The front straps for the dry box are also used to secure the kayak trolley into position.

The photograph below shows the neat stowage for the paddle float and bilge pump.

The dedicated spare anchor stowage and removable cutting board is clearly visible below.

The photograph below shows a set of removable plywood dividers that permit the box to remain neatly organised at all times. It’s very handy to be able to place your hand directly on something in the dark if required, not quite so easy to achieve if your crate/box is disorganised!

It really is a highly effective box and will fit in the majority of kayak tankwells. Total cost for the box and rod holders is around £30, add some fittings and cord and you might nudge £40, still a bit of a bargain in my eyes!