How to Easily Drain Water From Your Kayak

Quick Ways to Get Water Out of Your Kayak

So, you’ve had a bit of an adventure and now there’s water sloshing around in your kayak. Don’t worry, it happens to everyone! Getting that water out quickly is key. It prevents your kayak from becoming a heavy, waterlogged beast. Plus, a dry kayak is a happier kayak. Let’s look at the fastest ways to tackle this.

Using Basic Tools for Draining

You probably already have what you need to drain your kayak. Simple tools can make a big difference. Think of these as your kayak’s personal drainage system. We’ve found these methods are effective for most situations.

The Bailer or Sponge Method

This is your go-to for removing most of the water. A bailer is like a small bucket. A sponge is also super effective. You’ll want to scoop out as much water as possible with your chosen tool. Imagine you’re a giant sponge yourself, soaking up all that unwanted water.

Research and found that using a dedicated kayak bailer or a large, absorbent sponge works best (Paddling Magazine). These are designed to hold a good amount of water. This means fewer trips to dump the water out. It can feel a bit like a chore, but it’s surprisingly satisfying. You can see the water level drop with each scoop.

The Tipping Technique

Once you’ve bailed out the bulk of the water, tipping your kayak can get the rest. This is where you use gravity to your advantage. Gently lift one side of your kayak. Let the remaining water pool towards the lowest point.

Carefully tilt the kayak so the water flows out. You want to do this slowly and deliberately. Avoid sudden movements that could cause you to lose your balance. Many experts recommend doing this on a stable surface, like a dock or the shore. This helps prevent further water from entering. Think of it as giving your kayak a little shower.

We found that combining bailing with tipping is the most efficient approach. Start with bailing to remove the majority. Then, use tipping to get those last stubborn puddles. This two-step process saves you time and effort. It’s a simple, effective way to get your kayak nearly dry.

Dealing with Scupper Holes

Some kayaks, especially sit-on-top models, have scupper holes. These are small holes that allow water to drain. While they’re great for keeping you dry on the water, they can let water in when you’re not moving. Knowing how to manage them is important for effective draining.

Understanding Scupper Holes

Scupper holes are essentially self-draining ports. They allow water that splashes onto the deck to escape. This is a neat feature for comfort. However, when you want to empty your kayak, they can also be a source of water entry. This is why they are sometimes called “drain holes.”

We found that understanding their function is half the battle. They are designed to let water out, but you might need to block them to keep water out. This seems counterintuitive, right? But it makes sense when you want to drain it yourself.

Using Scupper Plugs

Scupper plugs are your best friends when you want to keep water out. You simply insert them into the scupper holes. They create a watertight seal. This allows you to drain the water by tipping or bailing without it immediately flowing back in.

Research shows that different types of plugs are available. Some are simple rubber stoppers. Others might have a flange for a tighter fit. Many guidelines suggest ensuring the plugs fit snugly. A loose plug won’t do you much good. You can find these at most kayak or outdoor supply stores. They are a small investment for a much drier paddling experience.

When it’s time to drain, just pop them out. The water can then flow freely through the scupper holes. This is especially helpful if you’re on a beach or a gentle slope. The plugs are easy to store in your kayak gear. Keep them in a small bag so they don’t get lost.

The Drying Process

Draining is only half the job. You need to make sure your kayak is completely dry afterward. This prevents mold and mildew. It also keeps your kayak in good condition for longer. A quick dry-down is essential.

Wiping Down Your Kayak

After you’ve drained the bulk of the water, grab a towel. Wipe down all the surfaces inside your kayak. Pay attention to nooks and crannies. Even a little bit of moisture can lead to problems down the line. Many experienced kayakers swear by a good microfiber towel.

We found that leaving your kayak upside down for a while can help. This allows any residual water to drip out. It also exposes more surface area to the air. Think of it as letting your kayak air out its lungs. This step is often overlooked, but it’s incredibly important.

Checking for Trapped Water

Sometimes water gets trapped in unexpected places. Check any hatches, storage compartments, or seat areas. These can hold surprising amounts of water. Make sure these are also emptied and wiped dry. A thorough check ensures you’re not leaving any moisture behind.

Essential Gear Checklist for Draining

Having the right gear makes draining your kayak much easier. You don’t need much, but a few items can be lifesavers. Here’s a quick rundown of what to have on hand:

• A dedicated kayak bailer or a large sponge
• Absorbent towels (microfiber works great)
• Scupper plugs (if your kayak has scupper holes)
• Gloves (optional, but can help with grip)
• A small dry bag for storing plugs

Troubleshooting Common Draining Issues

What if you’re still having trouble? Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Don’t get frustrated; there are usually simple solutions. We’ve seen a few common snags that pop up.

Water Won’t Drain Easily

If water seems reluctant to leave, check your scupper holes again. Are they completely clear? Sometimes debris can block them. Make sure your kayak is tilted correctly. A steeper angle might be needed. Research from boating safety sites often points to ensuring clear drainage paths as the first step (US Coast Guard Auxiliary).

Persistent Dampness

If your kayak stays damp, it might be the humidity or a hidden spot. Try leaving it in a well-ventilated area. Consider using a small fan if you’re drying it indoors. Ensuring all compartments are open can speed up the drying process.