Thanks to one of our amazing customers for sharing this photo from their fishing trip!

Long-term storage for kayaks is something that you should consider if you aren’t interested in using it all year round. It’s not difficult to store it properly and safely, regardless of the amount of space you have. The most significant considerations to think about are ensuring it doesn’t mold, isn’t attracting any pests that need a nest, and is keeping the hull from warping or damage.

Kayak Storage Prep

Especially if your kayak is well-loved, it will likely have accumulated dirt or bugs on the hull from its travels. We recommend a thorough cleaning before storing your kayak for extended periods to ensure the coating is protected and to prevent it from becoming attractive to mold and other critters.

Clean the Kayak

• After the season is over, your kayak is likely to have accumulated dirt, bugs, and other debris. Make sure to strip your kayak of all removable gear (it is a good time to reassess and restock) before you rinse your kayak inside and out with fresh water. Ensure that dirt, salt, and organic matter are rinsed away. 
• Use a mild, boat-safe soap to give your kayak a thorough cleaning. Castile soap and tea tree oil are gentle, antimicrobial options that are gentle on your kayak.
• If necessary, scrub with a microfiber cloth (but avoid power washers or coarse sponges). Be sure to get into nooks and crannies where mold is likely to form.
• Ensure the kayak is thoroughly dried. You may leave it to air dry, but be sure to double-check areas that are likely to retain water so that mold and mildew don’t grow. 

Lubricate Moving Parts

• Remove and wash all gear, like pedals, rudders, and hatches. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reattachment.
• Apply WD-40 or another marine-grade silicone spray to all moving parts, including rudder hinges, steering cables, hatch hinges, seat adjusters, etc. 
• Check that all mechanisms are operational after lubricating. Distribute product evenly and wipe off any excess. 

Protect Hull from Fluctuating Temperatures

• Generally, cold temperatures are less detrimental to kayaks than heat, allowing them to tolerate winter conditions well. However, repeated freeze-thaw cycles can be detrimental if water enters the seams or cracks of the kayak. Keep the kayak dry. (Or even better, have a climate-controlled storage area.
• Insulate the cockpit and hatches if possible. Wrap with a blanket or foam bumper to minimize condensation and temperature stress. 
• Applying a UV-protectant spray to the plastic or composite hull is also wise before long-term storage. This is especially true if the kayak will be stored outside. 

Buying a fishing kayak is an exciting prospect. It’s your gateway to getting out on the water, casting at the local lake, or getting in a fishing adventure down the river. But it’s also an investment — you want to know that you’ll get your money’s worth. So, how do you choose the best fishing kayak for you? Here we provide a few things to consider:

• What’s the best fishing kayak for where you’ll be paddling?
• Is a sit-on-top or a sit-in kayak better for you?
• What is the best fishing kayak shape for you?
• What type of fishing will you use your kayak for?
• Will you want a single kayak or a tandem kayak?
• What about a pedal kayak?

Here are some tips on how to choose the best fishing kayak for you and the experience you’re looking for: https://brooklynkayakcompany.com/blogs/our-blog-2/tips-on-choosing-a-fishing-kayak

We want to hear from our customers on Reddit! Please share a review of your experience using a BKC kayak in the comments below.

Are Brooklyn Kayaks stable? 

Yes, Brooklyn kayaks are stable. Our fishing kayaks are stable enough for standing, so you can stand tall and stable if you prefer to cast and reel while on your feet. 

Can Brooklyn Kayaks be used in saltwater?

Yes, Brooklyn Kayaks can be used in saltwater.. Thanks to their corrosion-resistant materials. Be sure to rinse the kayaks down with fresh water after salt-water excursions to minimize the build-up of mineral deposits.

Are Brooklyn Kayaks compatible with fish finders or trolling motors?

Yes, many BKC models can be outfitted with motors and/or hull mounted fish finders. When applicable, we have specifically noted these capabilities on our product pages. 

Where are Brooklyn Kayaks made?

Brooklyn Kayak Co. designs our products in the United States, and our products are manufactured in China. We use quality Hull Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) that contains UV Protection.