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DIY Kayak Stabilizer

A kayak stabilizer gives a kayak more stability in the water, which is ideal for standing, fishing and moving securely over rough water. This type of stabilizer is ideal for using in large bodies of water, such as the ocean and lakes. It does not work well in narrow bodies of water, such as rivers, as the stabilizers can stick on rocks and impede movement. The stabilization system is inexpensive and straightforward to remove when not needed.

Things You'll Need

2 ram tube rod holders
Drill
1-inch waterproof screws with nuts
Wrench
1/2-inch PVC pipe
2 elbow fittings, 1/2 inch
Waterproof cement glue
2 ̶0;T̶1; fittings, 1/2 inch
2 end caps, 1/2 inch
4 lobster buoys
Duct tape

Instructions

- 1
  Position the ball socket of the rod holder along the side of the kayak in the center of the boat. Mark the placement of the three screws with a marker. Drill through the marks to make room for the screws. Screw the balls in place with 1-inch screws and nuts using a wrench. Repeat for the other ball socket.
- 2
  Cut the 1/2-inch PVC pipe into two sections equaling 3 feet each. Cut four additional sections of piping equaling about 10 inches each.
- 3
  Fit the elbow fitting onto one end of the pipe and glue in place with waterproof cement glue. Fit the ̶0;T̶1; fitting to the bottom of the elbow fitting. Attach two 10-inch sections to either end of the ̶0;T̶1; fitting.
- 4
  Drill a 1/2-inch hole vertically through the lobster buoys. Side two buoys onto the 10-inch pipe pieces and glue in place. Glue an end cap over each pipe end to secure the buoys in place.
- 5
  Fit the other end of the pipe inside the rod tube connected to the ball socket fitting. Tape the pipe in place, if necessary, to ensure a snug fit. Repeat the process for the other side of the kayak. Allow the glue to dry 24 hours before using the stabilizers on the water.

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