How to Lock a Kayak
After purchasing your kayak, it is important to find a way to secure it from theft. With new kayaks costing around $1,000, investing only a little more (around $25 in most cases) will help keep it safe. A cable lock is a long, flexible cable with a combination lock or padlock that will give you the greatest variety of locking options. This versatility will come in handy when you go about locking your boat.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose a sturdy cable lock around 6 feet long.
-
2
Pick a secure point on your kayak that the cable will run through. One of the grab loops at the bow and stern will usually suffice. Additionally, some boats have security loops on the front or back deck that would provide a suitable locking point.
-
-
3
Decide what you'll be locking your boat to. Roof racks on your car are a viable option. If you're camping and your boat will be stored on the ground, locking it to the wheel of your car or a tree will provide a more secure option than the roof racks of your vehicle.
-
4
Run the cable lock through both the security point on your kayak and around or through the stationary security point. Be sure that once the ends of the cable lock are attached and secured, they are in a place easy for you to access.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
The thicker your cable lock, the harder it is for bolt cutters to sever.
While achieving basic security is simple, it is impossible to completely secure your kayak. Grab loops can be cut (or unscrewed from the boat if they are metal); bolt cutters will make quick work of all but the toughest locks, and roof racks can be removed. If possible, one of the safest places for your boat is locked inside your car.
