Most modern kayaks are created with a specific purpose in mind, from basic models designed for easy paddling to fishing kayaks with all the bells and whistles needed for a great catch.

Regardless of its intended purpose, kayak upgrades, customizations, and modifications can be added on at any time to meet a kayaker’s needs.

Kayak Storage Upgrades

Kayak anglers often agree that there’s never quite enough secure storage space for the necessary gear. If you don’t want to buy more gear, DIY kayak upgrades may include milk crates or cheap tackle toolboxes attached to the boat to store fishing essentials.
Crates

Crates are common fishing kayak upgrades. Milk crates provide more secure storage space than the open compartments typically included in standard equipment on most kayaks. Milk crates are an affordable option, as you may be able to find one for free.

The downside of using a milk crate is that if you flip it over, everything inside the crate falls out. The Tuff Krate™ - Premium is like a milk crate, but better. It is purposefully engineered for secure tackle organization and mounted accessory fixtures. The Tuff Krate features an enclosed bulk gear storage lid compartment with snap latches to keep contents from spilling out in case of flips.
Bungees

One of the most common ways to store gear on a kayak is to attach it to the pre-rigged bungee cord. Most kayak decks come standard with a webwork of elastic or static cords in varying lengths. The cords provide placement to secure gear to the deck and a convenient place to stash a spare paddle.

Bungees allow you to create kayak modifications on the deck of the boat for added storage.

Fishing Kayak Upgrades
Fish Finders

A popular upgrade for anglers who purchase a fishing kayak, paddle, and life jacket, is to invest in a fish finder. While some fish finders are more compact and offer limited features, other fish finders provide down, side, and 360-degree imaging, and provide valuable information like depth, water temperature, and detailed mapping.

In order to attach your fish finder to your kayak, you’ll likely need a mount kit.

Lastly, you’ll want a battery bag for your fish finder. This battery bag storage system is designed to house the battery of your fish finder and keep it suspended inside a hatch or bulkhead, away from water and debris.


Paddle and Rod Holder Clips

Keeping your kayak tidy and organized makes your time on the water more enjoyable. Having your paddle or rod secured when not in use frees up space to focus on other tasks like rigging tackle or eating lunch.

A simple and inexpensive solution is adding paddle and rod holder clips to your kayak.
Stand Up Steady Bars

Stand-up steady bars are simple kayak upgrades to make it easier to get in or out of your kayak, add stability, or make fishing easier.

A steady bar is helpful for anyone, but especially for those older in age or with balance issues. It’s also beneficial for those with back pain, who want to securely stand up and stretch.

Kayak Upgrades and Add Ons Make for an Optimal Experience on the Water

Old Town kayaks are designed to maximize your enjoyment on the water, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your kayak even better with a few modifications and upgrades. Upgrade the look of your kayak by adding stickers, graphics, or a name badge. Make it unique and personalized. Whether you purchase from your local kayak shop or go the DIY route, accessorizing your kayak is all part of the experience.