[R IGG ING]
CLEAN MACHINE W
CARING FOR YOUR KAYAK MADE EASY BY BRAD WIEGMANN
hile rinsing rods, storing lures, airing out PFDs and tossing unused bait are important clean-up procedures, many kayak anglers over- look their most valuable asset—the kayak! As with both kayaks and life, an ounce of prevention is worth a
pound of cure. Avoid dragging the kayak across rocks, pavement or even sand. Not only does this wear away the boat’s flesh, but it can actually bend the plastic. Instead, buy or build a kayak cart and use it. One of the biggest threats is from UV rays. Direct sunlight can fade the color and even break down the plastic. Although most kayaks are built with UV inhibitors in the plastic, no kayak can withstand extended exposure to direct sunlight without damage. The best place to store a kayak is inside, away from any sunlight. To rescue sun-damaged kayaks, Starbrite, long-time maker of marine waxes and cleaners, has developed Ultimate Kayak Cleaner and Pro- tectant. It’s specially formulated for all rotomolded plastic, Kevlar and fiberglass SUPs and kayaks. VP of Sales, Bill Lindsey says, “Just spray it on and wipe away dirt and deposits while applying a protective shield against UV damage.”
As a preventive measure, Blake Young, director of business develop-
ment at NuCanoe, urges kayak anglers to take extra care washing and clearing dirt and grime from gear tracks. “Ignore your gear tracks and they’ll corrode and jam-up,” Young says. He recommends loosening the track and cleaning with mild soap and water after each trip. “A light coat of grease or oil doesn’t hurt, either,” he adds. At Emotion Kayaks, marketing manager Candace Weaver warns against the dangers of sand. “Sand gets in the hatches and shreds gaskets or causes them to become stuck and sealed shut.” A quick rinse with fresh water after each fishing trip will keep rubber seals pli- ant. Damaged seals can be reconditioned with car polish or replaced. At Hobie Kayaks, fishing product manager Morgan Promnitz urges anglers in northern climes to clear ice and snow from rod holders and scuppers. “Water expands when it freezes, which can break or bend the plastic,” he explains. Properly storing a kayak is as important as cleaning it. Damon Bun- gard, product manager at Jackson Kayaks, recommends padded racks or straps that suspend the kayak from the ceiling. Position the straps or pads under scupper holes where they will support the kayak without affecting its shape. Over time, a kayak that is improperly stored can warp and bend, losing its original shape. “Never store a kayak on a roof rack or in a truck bed,” Bungard adds. In fact, the best way to store a kayak is lying on its side and leaning against a wall. Never leave the kayak lying on its keel. “Take care of your kayak,” Bungard says, “so your kayak can take care of you for years to come.” When Brad Wiegmann isn’t writing, photographing, guiding or win- ning tournaments, he can be found in his garage cleaning his fleet of fishing kayaks.
www.bradwiegmann.com.
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PHOTO: BRAD WIEGMANN
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