What Is Kayak Crate? (5 Tips To Attach A Crate With A Kayak)

A kayak crate is an excellent tool that you can install in your kayak to increase storage space. If you install a kayak crate then you will be able to safely house their gears and cheaply carry a variety of fishing tackles and rods. The kayak crate can easily fit on the back of your kayak.

Key Takeaways

• It is very easy to mount a kayak crate in a sit-on-top kayak than a sit-in kayak
• Like any other accessories, the crate it’s optional and remains an individual choice based on needs
• With large internal storage areas provided by the crate, you will have spare space to store freshwater plus food
• Quality materials for your kayak carate ensure better and stronger gears that can withstand forceful tear and wear

What Should I Put In My Kayak Crate?

Apart from storing fishing tackle, a kayak crate gives one a stable platform to mount several rod holders, lights, flags, or any other gear you might need in a hurry. It will help you keep your things safe and organized and allow you to mount multiple lashes down points so they won’t easily move around even in rough weather conditions.

With large internal storage areas provided by the crate, one will have enough and spare space to store freshwater plus food. For recreational kayakers, it is more interesting as a crate will give them space to store cold beverages, food, a camera, plus anything else they want to keep close at hand. At the same time, they are having an awesome time alone or with their loved ones.

How Do You Attach A Crate To A Kayak?

Attaching a crate to your kayak doesn’t need expertise skills as it’s something that anyone can easily do by following a few steps provided here.

Steps Of Attaching A Crate To A Kayak

Step 1: Assemble The Needed Materials

First things first, as we said earlier, it will depend on you, the type of item you will want to use based on your personal needs. When you know what your wants are, the next thing to do is look for the materials needed. You can go for homemade like a milk crate, especially if it’s your first time, and eventually advanced for something better later on. Materials in this case include;

1. Crate of your choice

2. Nine or more heavy-duty zip-ties

3. 5ft of 1.25 PVC pipe

4. Four bungee chords . i.e. small

5. 18×18×3  sheet of the form

6. Four small straps

7. Adhesive

8. Colored duct tape and spray paints ( optional)

9. Cutting tool

10. A file or sandpaper

11. Drill with ¼ bit

Step 2: Cut The PVP

Your next step is to cut the PVP pipes to length; also remember to cut out the slots that allow you’re spinning rods to slide down into a locking position. Be keen as this tool might be dangerous for you to use and if you need help with it.

1. Cut your 5 ft. piece of PVC into three 20″ segments and mark 5/8

2. To create a slot, you will be cutting, and filling in the lines.

3. Cut the slots using a hack-saw or Dremel

4. Take off burrs or sharp edges using a file or sandpaper

Step 3: Attach PVC Rod Holders TO the Crate

We have cut our PVC rod holders into shape, and it’s now time to attach them to our crate. Use one of the crate’s two sides that don’t have openings to enable handles to attach all the three-rod holders.

1. With the slot at the top hold your PVC segment to the creation in the position  you want

2. Mark a spot for holes on the crate on each side of the PVC. It should be one inch below the slot to drill

3. Also, mark the spot for holes on the crate on each side of the PVC. This one should be three inches above the bottom of the crate to drill.

4. Then drill all marked holes

5. To attach your PVC rod holder use two zip-ties to run through the holes.

Repeat the process until the three-rod holders have been connected to the same side of the Milkcrate. Find a good location at this step where your small bungee chords will be able to wrap around the PVC. Then grab the reel of the rod and lock them into place just in case of any eventuality.

Step 4: Build Your Lid

Here is a bit tricky because you need to find something that will work for you based on your needs to build a lid. For example, you can find a grated metal to use as this will enable you to see what is inside as it allows water and air to pass through easily.

1. Cut the lid to match your milk crate’s top dimensions.

2. Spray paint on the lid (optional)

3. For grated lids, the large wires will be at the bottom and the rotating edge for easy opening and closing.

4. Drill the marked spots for holes.

5. Use the zip-ties through the holes to attach the lid

6. Look for a connection point for a small bungee cord on the opposite side from the pivoting end and connect it to the crate

7. To hold your lid in the closed position, attach the small bungee chord and then clip

Step 5: Cut The Foam

You need to cut the foam depending on needs and, more so, the type of kayak. The foam is used to reduce the wear from the crate as it rids against the kayak plastic. It also makes sure the item fits properly on your yak.

1. Get the ideal location where you want your milk crate to be

2. To get an idea of how the crate will ride, use the 18*18 foam

3. No need for adjustment if it fits properly

Step 6: Strap Your Crate In

Strap your crate following the water you are used to or planning to go to. For rough water like white water, your device should have a sturdy connection to avoid any eventualities. If you are using bungees;

1. Look for a place near each corner of the crate to connect your bungees

2. Drill the sport after marking them

3. Then connect each bungee from the kayak to your crate just ensure it’s on the top of the foam

For Nylon Straps;

1. Check two locations on the side of the crate that is in line with your kayak connection point

2. Drill to cut two slots, one should be on top of the other one at each location

3. The strap should run into the bottom and back out of the top slot

4. Repeat the process for the other four connections made

Step 7: Be Ready To Hit The Waters

Our last step is to get ready to hit the water and try out your new additional accessory on your kayak. Check out your likes and dislike as you know everyone has their preference and might not be met by a specific design. It’s high time for you now to work on your kayak and feel this extremely fun and hobby experience. Don’t be left out as it is now becoming popular to DIY your kayak, follow the steps provided as we wish you fun and safety out there.

Why Is It Illegal To Use Milk Crates In Kayaks In Pennsylvania?

Yes, it’s true in Pennsylvania they criminalize unauthorized “use of any purpose” of milk crates stamped by the name of another company. While in many other states, the mere possession of somebody else milk crate isn’t a criminal act itself. Though it’s not logical to “buy, sell or dispose of” a milk crate that belongs to somebody else. It’s good to be always mindful of your state laws so that you don’t get yourself in the mix that it will be difficult for you to get out.

How Do I Choose The Right Kayak Fishing Crate?

There are numerous crates available in the market nowadays with different styles and designs.  To choose the perfect one, pay special attention to certain important aspects like type, size, materials, compatibility, and mounting, just to mention a few. Do research also and make a selection based on your personal preferences, needs, and budget, among other things. However, you can choose to go for the easy-to-use milk ones, kitted-out, or sleek and modern-shaped fishing crates.

These items are very important for kayak angler who wants to organize their fishing tackles and gears neatly or for recreational kayaker who needs more space to store some food and beverages. The point is, you will get one which will certainly suit your needs. Let’s now, go into the details regarding the factors to consider for making the right choice for a kayak fishing crate:

Types Of kayak Crates

When it comes to kayak storage, there are more options to choose from starting from the humble milk crate to modern, sleek, kitted-out ones with bells and whistles plus others we are going to discuss here;

Kayak Milk Crates

It has been used by kayak anglers for several decades, thanks to its affordability, durability, portability, and the fact that it fits perfectly into a kayak tank well. You can also customize it in countless ways to add to its versatility and utility.

Kayak anglers cut the bottom of the milk crate and mount it on top of another to act as a lid using zip ties. To secure your crate, use rod holders and bungee netting if you want to go down this route as we guarantee you more fun and experience.

Kayak Bag

These are the mix of the milk crate and a soft insulated tackle bag. It fits a standard milk crate and can be placed either inside or outside the primary compartment. The bag acts as storage on its own, and you can store things like tackle bags for shorelines or piers for fishing purposes. It also adds more firmness to your crate.

High-End Kayak Crates

Just as the name suggests, these are sophisticated and purpose-built kayak crates that have evolved over the years. Utilizing high-tech construction materials to increase its durability and portability. Many come equipped with external mounting options so that you can customize your setup in countless ways.

Most of these high-end items are waterproof and hence provide protection to your gears and tackle from getting wet with splashing water around you, or any unforeseen accident. Kayak accessories from manufacturers like Yakattack or Hobie enable you to mount your gear onto their compatible kayak crates.

Size

Size is the most important consideration you should look into when you are deciding on purchasing one. The limited space available on your kayak needs to be utilized intelligently by getting the right crate size on your yak. Maximize it by having the exact dimensions and the weight of the item that perfectly fits your kayak.

Materials

It’s an important feature to consider when choosing the perfect kayak fishing crate or any other yak accessories as this determines the durability of the said item. Quality materials ensure better and stronger gears that can withstand forceful tear and wear. To ascertain its sturdiness, check whether the product’s body is soft or hard.

Another significant component is that the selected material should be water-resistant. Waterproof ones come in handy when you are in the middle of the water, and there are some water splashes on your product or, better yet, your kayak rollover. Without the waterproof item, your gear and food will be soaked, and some might spoil, so you can go for the water-resistant one.

Compatibility

Remember, not all kayaks are meant to accommodate all types and kinds of crates or related accessories. So, it’s crucial to assess and review your kayak properly as to which product will work best for your brand. You can be lucky to find the exact match for your kayak to use even though it is not always the case.

But don’t worry, there are countless versions and models of these products and boats. Though all of them might not be listed online or on the manufacturer’s website, you will surely find them in a physical kayak store and accessories. Ascertain the compatibility of your kayak and purchase the suitable one.

Getting the right gear brand that will be compatible with the crate option of your choice is key, and you must be established at the outset, i.e., before you choose a particular product. Some of these items have customizable gear options; check the one you have, and whether it will fit accurately into your yak.

Mounting

As we said earlier, mounting the crate on your kayak tank is pretty easy. As explained earlier in this article, you can mount this product with bungee cords or by placing it inside the tank well. To achieve these, you need to have the right measurements of your brand tank that will match the size of the crate, for a perfect fit inside.

Most of the generic kayak crate fits properly on the sit-on-top kayaks, not unless your model is narrow. Ensure this product sits comfortably at the back of your model seat. It’s advisable to use soft silicone, rubber, or non-slip pads to keep your product sturdy and reduce the noise when paddling. During harsh weather conditions, the bungee cord and netting on top of the item fastened while keeping it secure in case of an unforeseen incidence of your kayak capsizing.

Ease Of use

When it comes to ease of use, we consider two things, i.e., easy to install the product and easy to access it. We all love the product that can be installed easily with the use of bungee rather than the hardware installed, as this makes it easy to move and organize the crate. Later check how easy it will be for you to access this product while in your seat in the middle of the water. The yak product that has easily accessible compartments is highly recommendable.

Value

Price can be a determining feature when it comes to our final choice. But the most important thing is to find something compatible with our model first whether it’s affordable or pricey

What Are The Dimensions Of A Milk Crate?

There are several milk crates available in the market, each having different dimensions according to the manufacturer’s target market. Unless you have the exact name of the product, it will be difficult to find the dimensions since companies don’t generalize their product. Let’s check the dimensions of a commonly known Authentic 4 Gallon 16 Quart Square Dairy Milk Crate with the product dimensions of 13×11×13 inches and weighing three pounds.

How Do You Make A Milk Crate?

The best way to find a milk crate is to approach a milk supplier close to you directly or purchase them online. In the US, it is not difficult to find product manufacturers who sell their products at affordable prices.

Many anglers have turned to plastic milk products to house their gear and fishing tackles. This is due to their affordability, lightweight, and availability. To make a homemade milk crate on your kayak, read the seven steps discussed above in our article on how you attach a crate to your kayak.

What Is The Best Kayak Crate?

The best kayak crate is the one that suits your needs; the design, style, and model don’t matter at this point. However, there are some of the top-known products in the market, which will not disappoint. These include:

1. Yak  Gear Milk Crate,

2. Yak attack BlackPak,

3. Hobie H-Crate,

4. Wilderness System

5. Plano Weekend Series Kayak Crate

6. Plano V-Crate

Do Mounting Devices Come With Crates?

Some companies do include the mounting hardware that is needed for you to install the crate. Though, most of them do not come with the bungee needed for installation. While making the purchase, check properly what the product comes with before making the final decision.

Can I Use A Regular Milk Crate?

Yes, you can. Products in the market don’t differ much from your standard milk crate. If you have it in your house, go ahead and mount it to your kayak. Also, if your budget doesn’t allow you to stretch further, you can choose to purchase the normal milk crate at an affordable price.

But as it’s not properly designed for this purpose, it might be tricky to install it on your kayak, unlike the manufactured ones. This means when using milk crates, you have to do all the drilling and spot marking until you perfectly fix it on your yak.  Luckily, this can be done with not much difficulty, as many have already done it.

Final Word

If you like kayaking, then you should know the importance of kayak crates. Most yaks without the attachment look messy like a yard sale with the clutters. Get your act together and attach this item for neat, clean, and properly organized gears and accessories in your model. The great place to mount this product on your model is the rear tank well as it enables easy accessibility and better organization.

A fishing crate ensures your gears are kept safe and secure in one location you can access easily. Yes, there are multiple products for everyone out there coming in different functionality and varieties designed particularly for anglers.  So, whether you want something personalized, simple, sophisticated, or ready-to-use they are at your disposal, what you need to do is to place an order.

References:

• https://www.yakgear.com/product-category/kayak-angler-crates/
• https://yourbassguy.com/kayak-fishing/best-kayak-crate/