10 Must-Have Kayak Accessories for Your Next Trip

Forgotten gear can ruin a perfect day on the water. Whether it’s a missing paddle leash or a dry bag, being unprepared turns a fun outing into a stressful hassle. Don’t let that happen to you! We’ve put together a list of 10 must-have kayak accessories to prepare you for your next adventure.

1. A High-Back Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Safety regulations require PFDs on most waterways, but many paddlers avoid them due to bulky, uncomfortable designs. Modern fishing PFDs address this with high-back flotation that clears kayak seats, wide armholes for full movement, and breathable mesh backs for hot days. With added pockets for tools and snacks, these PFDs combine comfort, safety, and functionality—making them a must-have on the water.

2. The Indispensable Paddle Leash

It's easy to lose your paddle when you're out on the water. You might drop it while reeling in a fish, or a sudden gust of wind could sweep it away, leaving you stranded. A paddle leash prevents this by securing the paddle to your kayak or wrist, ensuring it's always within reach.

Types of Leashes

Coiled leashes are great because they stay out of your way until you need them, stretching out when you paddle. If you prefer something simpler and more durable, a bungee-style leash is a good option. Either way, attaching one only takes a few seconds and provides peace of mind for the whole day.

3. Waterproof Dry Bags for Valuables

A dry bag is designed to keep your gear safe from rain, waves, or even a quick dip. It’s an essential tool for any adventure near water.

These bags are made from durable materials, like PVC or nylon, and feature a roll-top closure to keep moisture out. If they fall into the water, your gear won’t sink—it’ll stay right on the surface, ready for you to grab.

Organize Your Gear

Try using different colored bags to sort your items. For example, you could keep a first aid kit in a red bag and your phone and wallet in a clear one. This little system will help you find what you need in a flash while trying to stay balanced on the water.

4. An Anchor Trolley System

Wind can ruin a good fishing spot, but an anchor trolley system gives you the control you need. Unlike a standard anchor, a trolley acts like a pulley on the side of your kayak, letting you adjust your anchor's position from the bow to the stern without needing to stand up.

This allows you to point your kayak into the wind or current, which provides greater stability in choppy conditions. Anchoring from the side of your kayak is dangerous and can cause it to tip, but a trolley system lets you move the line to a safer angle. It’s a simple upgrade that makes fishing in moving water much easier and safer.

5. Fish Finder and GPS Combo

A fish finder reveals what you can't see from the surface, like depth, temperature, and structure, so you can stop guessing where to find fish. Adding GPS allows you to mark boat ramps, fishing spots, and hazards.

Mounting a fish finder is simple. Many units attach to gear tracks with transducer arms that hang over the side, so you don't have to drill holes in your boat. Powering them is also easy, thanks to lightweight lithium batteries that fit inside hull hatches and provide power for days.

6. Adjustable Rod Holders

You need a secure place to stash your rod. Most fishing kayaks come with flush-mount holders behind the seat, but these make it difficult to see a strike while trolling. Adjustable, front-mounted rod holders are a better choice, as they keep your rod tip in view.

Customize Your Rig

Gear tracks allow you to slide holders into the perfect position. You can keep them close for easy bait changes or push them forward to keep the cockpit clear.

Adding sturdy kayak attachments to your gear tracks expands your storage options without permanent modifications. You can swap between rod holders, camera mounts, or cup holders depending on the day's plan.

7. Safety Whistle and Signaling Device

Being low on the water makes kayaks hard to spot for powerboats, increasing collision risk. Carry a loud sound device, like a pea-less whistle, which works even when wet. Clip it to your PFD for easy access.

For visibility, use a bright orange flag to stand out over waves. At night, a 360-degree white light is mandatory to prevent collisions. These simple tools significantly enhance safety.

8. Floating Landing Net

Grabbing a fish by hand can be tricky and lead to lost catches or snagged hooks. A landing net makes it easier and helps protect the fish for catch-and-release.

Choose a rubberized mesh net to avoid tangles and make hook removal simple. For kayak fishing, go for a short handle for better control, and make sure the net floats if it falls overboard.

9. Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart

Getting a rigged kayak from your car to the water can scrape the plastic, so a kayak cart is essential to bear the weight.

There are two main types of carts:

• Scupper carts: These insert posts through the kayak's drainage holes. While secure, they can stress the hull.
• Strap carts: These cradle the hull, avoiding direct pressure on the scupper holes.

When choosing a cart, consider the terrain. Large, balloon-style tires are best for soft sand, while hard plastic wheels are suitable for smoother surfaces like boat ramps.

10. A Quality Crate System

The rear tank well provides excellent storage, perfectly fitting a milk crate to act as a trunk for your boat. You can use this space to add rod holders, keep tackle boxes upright, or attach a camera pole or safety flag.

While you can build a crate cheaply with zip ties and PVC pipe, purpose-built kayak crates are also available. These often come with lids to keep your gear secure if you flip. Organizing your tackle in the rear tank well also keeps the deck clear, providing more space for standing and casting.

Before you hit the water, double-check your gear against our list of must-have kayak accessories. Being prepared is about staying safe and making the most of every moment on your trip.

If you're ready for a vessel that can handle all your gear, check out Kaku Kayak. Our innovative designs offer the perfect blend of paddle board stability and kayak performance, giving you a platform ready for any adventure.