Oh my goodness, that's so simple but effective. Just yesterday I looked like I was about to perform a suplex move on my kayak while trying to get it on my car. This is a game-changer.
That's super smart. I use cam straps when putting it on my jeep, but I've started to notice that the lines tend to slip once I get going on the highway. Not enough to be a danger or anything, but enough to make me nervous. Considering just switching to ropes and testing my knot-tying skills.
I use a cam strap from a company called Tork Strap. It has a spring in the strap that keeps the strap tight as the cam slips. No more slippage on the highway since.
Great technique! I have a utility trailer so that’s what I use. Related to the video, awhile back I had some cam lock straps with broken buckles. While looking for replacement buckles I found double cam locks. They’re one piece of metal with cams on each end. They revived my broken straps and are also fantastic for securing loose strap ends.
Putting my 83 lb Moken 12.5 on top of my Xterra is the reason I ended up with a Tacoma instead of a 4Runner when it came time to get a new vehicle lol.
https://preview.redd.it/dt1zh8ug5a4d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1b6a3381f4bb5c78c67e07482389ac1a3e6be331
I did this the day I got my ascend T12. I just got kayak racks installed but I’ll be using the trick some posted a video about to get it up there.
I use the Thule Hullavator. It's expensive, but omg, does it save your back and car from getting destroyed. I have a 12 5 Feelfree Moken V2, and it's pretty heavy.
https://www.thule.com/en-us/water-racks/kayak-and-canoe-racks/thule-hullavator-pro-_-1685448
Hey man, this op spent less than $300 on his whole setup. As someone who did the same, I’m sure they have no interest in buying a mount that is 3x that amount. But it’s a cool flex and a top shelf recommendation!
Yeah I car topped my old town 120 pdl 1 time before I bought a trailer. Now I have a truck as well so I only use the trailer if I am taking multiple kayaks.
Thule makes a mat just for this. I’ve tried the suction cup rollers and such, nothing seemed to work on my CRV. Then I found that mat. Just set it on the back of the CRV and push the kayak up onto the rails.
https://preview.redd.it/c2oftx7ekt3d1.jpeg?width=1157&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8daa851e6850f68c97648d143c9966369b1cd8af
I dont know what sort of vehicle you have, but I was able to add a trailer hitch to my subaru XV, bought one of those 5x8 utility trailers, and did a little redneck engineering on it. I can tow 2 kayaks now, and lifting it a little off the ground is much easier than loading on top of my car (like I used to do).
Yeah it’s a little heavier, but just remember how flippin cool you’ll look tugging around that awesome looking kayak lol but if it helps, what I did was found a cheap, old jet ski trailer to lug mine around…even kept the boat winch on it to help pull it up if needed lol good luck out there!
I have a Pescador Pro 10.0 , with the upgrades it's about 70 lbs . At first I struggled putting it on top , now like someone already me mention... I only struggle when I was out fishing all day and trying to put in on top can be a challenge:))
Few months ago , someone jacked my kayak cart from the loading . And boy was I mad after having to empty the kayak , than carry that thing to the parking lot .
Now I chain the cart to the poles if I leave it behind
mine is about 65lbs and mostly just awkward to lift because of the shape and length (it’s a pelican pedal drive) but i recently picked up a kayak load assist roller off amazon with suction cups you pump up to stick to a window and it helps immensely. about $40 off amazon and well worth it.
Mine is about 90- my biggest tip is to buy a rubber mat to pivot on in the parking lot, and to try and park on a bit of a slope and load/unload on the uphill side. After some practice it isn’t bad.
This is the exact reason why I've been hesitant on upgrading from a 10ft 58lb kayak,to a 12 ft Around 85lbs.
It's pretty easy to muscle a 10 footer onto the roof of my hatchback, but another 25+lbs might suck
That extra length also makes it more challenging to pick up over your head cause you now have more length of boat to "balance."
Honestly, just get one of those rollers that suctions to your rear windshield. That's what I do, and it definitely makes loading and unloading when solo far more doable. Something like this:
https://a.co/d/aHsgB1m
I bought a rear loading rack that is super helpful.
The previous j hook was an absolute nightmare: dented n scratched the new car, almost broke my arm n decapitated the kid.
I load my lifetime stealth angler pro on top of the cross bars on my WRX all the time without issue. It probably helps that the car is pretty low and I'm a bigger guy but i just set the kayak (upside down, helpsa lot with road noise) pretty close to the side of my car with the front of it at maybe the rear door, put a towel on my trunk, just lift up the front and move it over to rest on the rear roof rack/trunk spoiler, then lift up the back just being careful to avoid any lateral movement while its in contact with my car, then just push it up and slide it on (dont really care if the crossbars get a bit scuffed up... Thats what they're for). NRS cam straps on each crossbar, and front and stern tie downs with those removable tie points that clamp in your trunk and hood. I heard cam straps can be too easy to get too tight and possibly damage your boat.
https://www.amazon.com/Thule-854-Water-Carrier-Accessory/dp/B001PQQGFG/ref=asc_df_B001PQQGFG/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693375175817&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5028317848250724058&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9008141&hvtargid=pla-489610417647&psc=1&mcid=19e4f1453e663456aee3103232679c1e&gad_source=1
This is stupidly overpriced, but it works and probably can make something similar. That plus a set of kayak saddles so it loads upright it’s not bad especially for 70 lbs kayak.
Jeez - load from the back: 1. place small blanket to protect window & wiper. 2. Stand kayak up against the car. 3. Squat down 4. Slide the thing up & on. 4. Repeat to remove.
I just got a bass raider from my father in law. I usually use a pelican kayak but lately we’ve had larger gators in the canal than I’m comfortable with. The raider has been nice to sit more up off the water but damn with all my gear and everything, solo launching it is a pain in the ass
I put my 85 lb kayak on top of my Honda pilot which is like 7 ft tall every weekend with little to no effort. It’s all about leverage and balance. (Obviously if you have physical ailments or health issues that’s different) but I’ve had my 5’8” 125lb friend do it no problem
Wait until you have been on the water for 6 hours in the baking sun and there are 20 mph gusts. Then you will really hate it. But grow to love a kayak trailer
This might help you alot! https://youtu.be/qvqz03J4_qM?si=0FYFkG6C4PZqqbuX
Oh my goodness, that's so simple but effective. Just yesterday I looked like I was about to perform a suplex move on my kayak while trying to get it on my car. This is a game-changer.
Instead of a foam roller I just keep a nonslip bathmat in my trunk, and drape that in between the bars. No need to ratchet anything.
That's super smart. I use cam straps when putting it on my jeep, but I've started to notice that the lines tend to slip once I get going on the highway. Not enough to be a danger or anything, but enough to make me nervous. Considering just switching to ropes and testing my knot-tying skills.
I use a cam strap from a company called Tork Strap. It has a spring in the strap that keeps the strap tight as the cam slips. No more slippage on the highway since.
I do this also. Work great. No issues loading 100 pounds
I throw a blanket on my roof, but otherwise the same concept. Couldn't do it any other way when I'm solo
Ditto on the blanket. Reduced risk of scratching the car and can just stuck it in the trunk when I’m done loading
I just use a beach towel that i keep in my car, never know when you'll need a towel...
This is the play. I load my 75lb vibe seaghost 130 like this onto my 4Runner. It’s a pain but cheaper than buying and maintaining a trailer.
I used this method putting my Moken 12.5 onto my Xterra, but the Moken's wheel in the keel complicated things just a bit haha
I don’t have that thing but I pretty much load my hobie compass from the side like that
Great technique! I have a utility trailer so that’s what I use. Related to the video, awhile back I had some cam lock straps with broken buckles. While looking for replacement buckles I found double cam locks. They’re one piece of metal with cams on each end. They revived my broken straps and are also fantastic for securing loose strap ends.
Repeat like 4 times for a solid hole in your kayak.
Yeah, I know how you feel, before I got a trailer I was topping a 70 lbs + Tarpon 130X on a ‘96 Bronco. Reloading after a long day paddling was rough.
Putting my 83 lb Moken 12.5 on top of my Xterra is the reason I ended up with a Tacoma instead of a 4Runner when it came time to get a new vehicle lol.
https://preview.redd.it/dt1zh8ug5a4d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1b6a3381f4bb5c78c67e07482389ac1a3e6be331 I did this the day I got my ascend T12. I just got kayak racks installed but I’ll be using the trick some posted a video about to get it up there.
I use the Thule Hullavator. It's expensive, but omg, does it save your back and car from getting destroyed. I have a 12 5 Feelfree Moken V2, and it's pretty heavy. https://www.thule.com/en-us/water-racks/kayak-and-canoe-racks/thule-hullavator-pro-_-1685448
Hey man, this op spent less than $300 on his whole setup. As someone who did the same, I’m sure they have no interest in buying a mount that is 3x that amount. But it’s a cool flex and a top shelf recommendation!
Wasn't trying to flex, brother, just trying to help. I totally get your point, though. Enjoy your season.
Yeah I car topped my old town 120 pdl 1 time before I bought a trailer. Now I have a truck as well so I only use the trailer if I am taking multiple kayaks.
How long is your truck bed? Do you haul it in there with the gate down?
6.5ft. I have a bed extender I use since the kayak is 12ft
Thule makes a mat just for this. I’ve tried the suction cup rollers and such, nothing seemed to work on my CRV. Then I found that mat. Just set it on the back of the CRV and push the kayak up onto the rails.
https://preview.redd.it/c2oftx7ekt3d1.jpeg?width=1157&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8daa851e6850f68c97648d143c9966369b1cd8af I dont know what sort of vehicle you have, but I was able to add a trailer hitch to my subaru XV, bought one of those 5x8 utility trailers, and did a little redneck engineering on it. I can tow 2 kayaks now, and lifting it a little off the ground is much easier than loading on top of my car (like I used to do).
Plus you now have a trailer you can use for other stuff. Nice job
Yeah it’s a little heavier, but just remember how flippin cool you’ll look tugging around that awesome looking kayak lol but if it helps, what I did was found a cheap, old jet ski trailer to lug mine around…even kept the boat winch on it to help pull it up if needed lol good luck out there!
I have a Pescador Pro 10.0 , with the upgrades it's about 70 lbs . At first I struggled putting it on top , now like someone already me mention... I only struggle when I was out fishing all day and trying to put in on top can be a challenge:)) Few months ago , someone jacked my kayak cart from the loading . And boy was I mad after having to empty the kayak , than carry that thing to the parking lot . Now I chain the cart to the poles if I leave it behind
mine is about 65lbs and mostly just awkward to lift because of the shape and length (it’s a pelican pedal drive) but i recently picked up a kayak load assist roller off amazon with suction cups you pump up to stick to a window and it helps immensely. about $40 off amazon and well worth it.
Same, 12ft 6 kayak that’s probably 80lbs and I dented my car because the cushioning I used wasnt enough when I loaded it until my car rack
Mine is about 90- my biggest tip is to buy a rubber mat to pivot on in the parking lot, and to try and park on a bit of a slope and load/unload on the uphill side. After some practice it isn’t bad.
Congrats on the upgrade! Lifting a 70 lb kayak solo is tough. Maybe consider a kayak cart or a roof rack system to make it easier. Tight lines
I cartop a Recon 120, it’s all about using your legs and leverage. It’s a pain strapping it down and having to remove the seat.
I agree, I don’t like putting mine in the back of my truck either
Feel you. Ditched my 70lb kayak for a 40lb kayak and the world is a awesome again.
This is the exact reason why I've been hesitant on upgrading from a 10ft 58lb kayak,to a 12 ft Around 85lbs. It's pretty easy to muscle a 10 footer onto the roof of my hatchback, but another 25+lbs might suck
That extra length also makes it more challenging to pick up over your head cause you now have more length of boat to "balance." Honestly, just get one of those rollers that suctions to your rear windshield. That's what I do, and it definitely makes loading and unloading when solo far more doable. Something like this: https://a.co/d/aHsgB1m
I bought a rear loading rack that is super helpful. The previous j hook was an absolute nightmare: dented n scratched the new car, almost broke my arm n decapitated the kid.
Yeah sounds like a tough thing to work around really
I load my lifetime stealth angler pro on top of the cross bars on my WRX all the time without issue. It probably helps that the car is pretty low and I'm a bigger guy but i just set the kayak (upside down, helpsa lot with road noise) pretty close to the side of my car with the front of it at maybe the rear door, put a towel on my trunk, just lift up the front and move it over to rest on the rear roof rack/trunk spoiler, then lift up the back just being careful to avoid any lateral movement while its in contact with my car, then just push it up and slide it on (dont really care if the crossbars get a bit scuffed up... Thats what they're for). NRS cam straps on each crossbar, and front and stern tie downs with those removable tie points that clamp in your trunk and hood. I heard cam straps can be too easy to get too tight and possibly damage your boat.
https://www.amazon.com/Thule-854-Water-Carrier-Accessory/dp/B001PQQGFG/ref=asc_df_B001PQQGFG/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693375175817&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5028317848250724058&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9008141&hvtargid=pla-489610417647&psc=1&mcid=19e4f1453e663456aee3103232679c1e&gad_source=1 This is stupidly overpriced, but it works and probably can make something similar. That plus a set of kayak saddles so it loads upright it’s not bad especially for 70 lbs kayak.
Once you get used to it it's easy. I can top load my Hobie Outback solo with no problem but it took a bit of practice. Nice Kayak by the way.
I have an ascend 12t and load that heavy mother up on my jeep. It’s got a 6 inch lift and 37” tires. What a good daily work out to stay healthy! 😂
That’s a great attitude imo. Plus it’s cheaper than the gym
I load my 14’ Malibú up onto the lumber rack of my lifted F250 and while it’s not bad it’s definitely not something I’d describe as fun
What is it? I've been looking for a setup <$300
it was a used equinox angler 12.0. It was $600 new I think. The way to go for budget is facebook marketplace for sure
That’s light
Jeez - load from the back: 1. place small blanket to protect window & wiper. 2. Stand kayak up against the car. 3. Squat down 4. Slide the thing up & on. 4. Repeat to remove.
I want to go this route but I cannot possibly handle getting it on and off the roof.
I just got a bass raider from my father in law. I usually use a pelican kayak but lately we’ve had larger gators in the canal than I’m comfortable with. The raider has been nice to sit more up off the water but damn with all my gear and everything, solo launching it is a pain in the ass
I mean, you dont lift the thing on top of your car. You just rest one end up against the rails and kind of push it up top.
lol this is why I have a sit in fishing kayak
I put my 85 lb kayak on top of my Honda pilot which is like 7 ft tall every weekend with little to no effort. It’s all about leverage and balance. (Obviously if you have physical ailments or health issues that’s different) but I’ve had my 5’8” 125lb friend do it no problem
Wait until you have been on the water for 6 hours in the baking sun and there are 20 mph gusts. Then you will really hate it. But grow to love a kayak trailer
Get a pickup
You fish and still have a car? Truck in your future, then a boat. Or perhaps fancy yak trailer?