How to Drain Your Pelican Kayak: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Your Pelican Kayak Water-Free: A Simple Guide

After a fantastic day on the water, the last thing you want is to wrestle with a heavy, waterlogged kayak. We’ve all been there, right? That satisfying splash of paddling can also mean a boat full of water. Fortunately, draining your Pelican kayak is usually a straightforward process. You’ll be surprised how quick and easy it can be.

Locating and Using Your Pelican Kayak’s Drain Plug

Most Pelican kayaks come equipped with a built-in drain plug. This is your primary tool for getting water out efficiently. It’s usually located at the stern (the back) of the kayak, often on the bottom surface. You might need to lift the kayak slightly or get on your hands and knees to find it. Don’t worry if it’s a little stiff at first; it’s designed to create a tight seal.

Finding the Drain Plug

Take a look at the very back end of your kayak. You’re searching for a small, usually black, rubber or plastic plug. It might be a simple screw-in type or a pop-out design. Some models have a small lanyard attached to prevent it from getting lost. If you can’t see it immediately, check the owner’s manual for your specific Pelican model. They often provide clear diagrams.

Operating the Drain Plug

Once you’ve located your drain plug, the operation is usually simple.

• For screw-in plugs: Gently twist the plug counter-clockwise to loosen and remove it. Be careful not to overtighten when you reinsert it later.
• For pop-out plugs: You might need to push it in or pull it out with a slight twist. Again, check your manual if it’s not obvious.

With the plug removed, you’re ready for the next step. This is where the magic happens and the water starts to flow out. Keep it handy so you don’t lose it!

The Tilting Technique for Maximum Drainage

Removing the drain plug is only half the battle. To get all that water out, you’ll need to use a bit of physics: gravity! Tilting your kayak is the most effective way to get the water to move towards the drain plug and exit. Think of it like pouring water out of a bucket.

Positioning for Drainage

Gently lift the stern (back) of your kayak. You want to angle it downwards so that any water pooled inside will naturally flow towards the stern and out through the open drain plug. You don’t need to lift it excessively high; a moderate tilt is usually sufficient. Make sure the area around the plug is clear of any debris that could block the flow.

Working the Water Out

You might need to rock your kayak gently from side to side. This motion helps dislodge any stubborn water pockets and ensures a thorough drainage. Imagine you’re trying to coax every last drop out. You’ll likely hear a satisfying gurgling sound as the water escapes. Continue tilting and rocking until no more water is visibly draining out.

Dealing with Remaining Water

Even with careful tilting, a small amount of water might remain. This is perfectly normal! For that last bit of moisture, you have a couple of options.

• Sponge or Towel: A dedicated kayak sponge or an old towel can quickly soak up the residual water. Keep one in your kayak gear for this purpose.
• Chamois Cloth: These synthetic cloths are excellent at absorbing water and are often used for drying cars. They work wonders in a kayak, too.

The goal is to get the kayak as dry as possible. This prevents mildew and makes it lighter to carry or load onto your vehicle.

When the Drain Plug Isn’t Enough: Alternative Methods

While the drain plug and tilting are the standard methods, sometimes you might encounter situations where they aren’t ideal, or you want to ensure absolute dryness. For instance, if your drain plug is stuck or missing, or if you just want to be extra thorough.

The “Bailer” Method

A kayak bailer is a simple tool designed to scoop water out of your boat. It’s essentially a small scoop or bucket. You can purchase these at most outdoor or kayak supply stores. Simply scoop the water out and discard it over the side. This is a bit more labor-intensive but very effective for removing larger volumes of water.

Using a Wet/Dry Vacuum (with caution!)

For those who are meticulous about dryness, especially before storing the kayak for an extended period, a wet/dry vacuum can be a surprisingly effective tool. However, you must exercise caution.

• Ensure the vacuum is rated for wet use.
• Never submerge the vacuum.
• Be mindful of the power cord to avoid tripping or getting it wet.

This method is best for getting those last few stubborn droplets out and ensuring your kayak is bone dry, which is great for long-term storage. Many owners find this gives them extra peace of mind.

A Quick Checklist for a Dry Pelican Kayak

Follow these simple steps to ensure your kayak is properly drained after each use:

• Locate your kayak’s drain plug.
• Remove the drain plug carefully.
• Tilt the stern of the kayak downwards.
• Rock the kayak gently to dislodge water.
• Wipe or sponge out any remaining drops.
• Reinsert the drain plug securely.

Completing this checklist after every outing will make a big difference in maintaining your kayak.

Why Keeping Your Pelican Kayak Dry Matters

You might be asking yourself, “Does it really matter if a little water stays in my kayak?” The answer is a resounding yes! Keeping your Pelican kayak dry extends its life and makes your adventures much more pleasant.

Weight and Portability

Water is heavy! A waterlogged kayak is significantly harder to carry, lift, and load onto your vehicle. Draining it properly makes transport much easier, saving your back and your energy for the paddling itself. We found that even a few gallons of water can add 30-40 pounds or more to your kayak’s weight (U.S. Coast Guard).

Preventing Mold and Mildew

Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These can create unpleasant odors and, over time, can degrade the materials of your kayak. Keeping it dry ensures a clean and fresh boat for your next outing. Proper ventilation, in addition to draining, also helps prevent this (Environmental Protection Agency).

Protecting Your Investment

Your kayak is an investment in fun and recreation. Taking a few minutes to drain it properly helps protect that investment. It ensures the material stays in good condition and prevents potential damage from water sitting in places it shouldn’t. Think of it as simple, regular maintenance that pays off.

Reinserting the Drain Plug: A Final Step

Don’t forget this crucial final step! Once your kayak is as dry as you can get it, it’s time to put the drain plug back in. Make sure it’s clean and free of any sand or debris before reinserting. Twist it firmly clockwise until it’s snug. You want a good seal to prevent water from entering during your next adventure. Over-tightening isn’t necessary and could damage the plug or the hull. A secure fit is all you need.