How to Install a Kayak Anchor Trolley: A Step-by-Step Guide

The anchor trolley system lets kayakers take full control of where they anchor and fish from their kayak. Both recreational paddlers and fishing enthusiasts find this upgrade valuable because it helps them adjust their position based on wind, current, and their target catch. This simple system that works well reshapes the scene by turning any kayak into a more versatile boat you can manage easily.

This detailed guide shows you how to install an anchor trolley system step by step. You’ll learn about the tools and materials you need, the right way to install everything, and key safety tips to think about. The guide walks you through mounting pad eyes, setting up pulleys, and making final adjustments. These steps are the foundations of a secure and working anchor trolley on your kayak.

Gather the Necessary Materials and Tools

The kayak anchor trolley system’s installation requires proper preparation. Gathering all materials and tools is significant for a successful setup. The complete installation needs specific components and proper tools that ensure safety and functionality.

List of required components

A standard kayak anchor trolley kit has these essential parts:

• Hull-mounted flush pulleys that prevent fish-spooking slap
• A 2-inch diameter ring you’ll need for setting pole use
• A zig-zag cleat that locks the cord position
• Pad eyes complete with mounting hardware
• Marine-grade cord spanning 30-35 feet
• Stainless steel hardware (screws or rivets)
• Bungee cord that absorbs shock

Tools needed for installation

You will need these tools to complete the installation:

• Drill with 1/8″ and 3/8″ drill bits
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Marine-grade sealant
• Marker pen
• Scissors or utility knife
• Lighter or matches to treat the cord

Safety precautions

Your safety matters most during the installation and use of an anchor trolley system. These critical safety measures will protect you:

Installation Safety:

• Marine-grade sealant must be used to stop water from getting in
• Backing hardware prevents injury from exposed screw ends on sit-inside kayaks
• Each mounting point needs proper sealing and secure fastening

Usage Safety:

• Calm and sheltered waters provide the best environment to practice anchoring
• An experienced partner can help you learn the ropes safely
• Your system’s components need regular checks for damage
• Local boating rules and safety guidelines must be followed

Different kayak types require specific installation approaches based on hull access. Self-tapping screws work best for sit-on-top kayaks that have limited interior access. Sit-inside models work better with backing hardware that uses locking nuts and stainless washers.

Install the Bow and Stern Pad Eyes

The placement of pad eyes at the bow and stern demands precision and attention to detail to ensure the anchor trolley system works effectively. These significant components need strategic positioning at the start of the installation process.

Marking the drill holes

Position the bow pad eye within the first 6-8 inches from the bow of the kayak to achieve optimal functionality. The stern’s pad eye must sit as far back as possible, which helps the kayak maintain better positioning in tidal flow. Take a marker pen and mark the mounting holes carefully while making sure the pad eye arranges perfectly with the kayak’s centerline.

Drilling and sealing

The installation needs drilling 5mm diameter holes to mount the hardware. Here are the critical steps you should think about before starting the installation:

1. Ensure the drill is level when creating the holes
2. Clean any plastic debris from the holes
3. Apply marine-grade sealant (such as Sicker flex or marine goop) to the holes
4. Spread a thin layer of sealant around the mounting area

Attaching pad eyes with rivets

The mounting process needs careful attention to create a waterproof seal. Trifold rivets should go through the pad eye and into the pre-drilled holes. A pop rivet gun with the correct size nozzle will help you install them properly. The rivet shaft splits three ways behind the plastic and creates a strong mounting point.

Smooth excess sealant around the rivet heads to waterproof them further. This step will give a completely waterproof seal and adds durability to your installation. Both bow and stern pad eyes need similar treatment to maintain consistent performance of the anchor trolley system.

Set Up the Pulley System

The pulley system setup is a vital part of building the quickest kayak anchor trolley setup. Proper technique and careful attention will ensure the system operates smoothly.

Attaching bow pulley with bungee cord

Start by cutting a bungee cord approximately 40 centimeters (15 inches) in length. This elastic piece serves as a crucial shock absorber. The next step requires you to slide the pulley onto the bungee cord and feed one end through the pad eye that was mounted earlier. Secure everything by tying an overhand knot with the doubled elastic material.

Installing stern pulley with carabiner

Attach the stern pulley using a 60-millimeter carabiner. Position the pulley close to the kayak’s back to keep the boat straight in tidal flow. Important: The pulley wheel must face toward the boat’s center to maintain proper line up.

Threading the trolley line

Here’s how to install your trolley line step by step:

1. Thread the line from bottom to top through the bow pulley
2. Guide it through the bow pad eye
3. Run it across the length of the kayak
4. Pass through the sternal pad eye
5. Thread from top to bottom through the stern pulley

Harken pulleys make sure your trolley rope runs smoothly from bow to stern. This smart design solves the biggest problem of rope wearing against pad eyes. The pulleys sit in specific spots to protect your boat’s surface from rubbing or scratches.

The line needs just the right tension—not too loose, not too tight. You should be able to move your anchor position easily while keeping everything stable. Note: Your pulley system keeps the line flat against the kayak’s side, so it won’t slip up over the gunwale while you’re using it.

Complete the Trolley System

Securing system components and ensuring smooth operation marks a significant phase in kayak anchor trolley installation. Precise adjustments and careful attention to detail will guarantee optimal performance.

Tying knots to attach rings

A support knot (also known as multi-overhand slip knot) secures the rings effectively in this system. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Take the trolley line and thread it through the carriage with enough slack
2. Make three complete wraps around the main cord
3. The tag end should pass through the coils’ center
4. Pull the knot tight gradually while keeping proper tension
5. Use a lighter to melt the cord ends and prevent fraying

Adjusting trolley line tension

The system’s functionality depends significantly on proper tension. The line adjustment process requires careful attention to avoid over-tightening because the paracord naturally contracts with exposure to water and sun. The installation should include some slack that accommodates this natural tightening process. Important: The line must touch the kayak’s hull and allow the ring to move smoothly.

Installing the zig-zag cleat

The zig-zag cleat plays a vital role to secure both trolley and anchor lines. Here’s what you need to know about installation:

• Place the chair where you can reach it from your seat
• Mount it above the kayak’s seam line so you can access it easily
• Add marine-grade sealant around each mounting point
• Drill 5mm holes to fit everything properly

You’ll need marine-grade A4 stainless M5 bolts with washers and nyloc nuts to ensure everything lasts. Make sure you apply enough marine sealant before mounting to keep water out. Once installed, the system lets you lock both trolley and anchor lines through alternating zig-zag patterns.

The system works best when you test it thoroughly. Slide the trolley from bow to stern several times; the line should glide smoothly through the pulleys while keeping proper tension. Safety Tip: Your zig-zag cleat must be mounted firmly because it handles heavy loads when your kayak sits at anchor.

Conclusion

A kayak anchor trolley system just needs attention to detail and proper step-by-step execution. You’ll start by gathering quality materials and tools. The process moves through precise pad eye placement and ends with a properly tensioned pulley system. Safety measures throughout installation will give you immediate security and long-term reliability.

Well-installed anchor trolleys change simple kayaks into highly maneuverable watercraft. Paddlers get boosted control in all conditions. The system lets you adjust positioning relative to wind and current. This makes it valuable for fishing enthusiasts and recreational paddlers alike. Check all components regularly to maintain optimal performance and extend the system’s service life. Pay special attention to mounting points and cord tension.

FAQs

1. Which side of the kayak should the anchor trolley be installed on?
This question is not answered in the provided content.

2. What is the function of an anchor trolley on a kayak?
An anchor trolley offers several benefits, including easier anchoring and anchor removal. It allows for effective fishing in various wind conditions by maintaining the kayak’s position and orientation. Additionally, it enables the kayak to be rotated without needing to detach the anchor.

3. How do you mount a kayak on a kayak trolley?
This question is not answered in the provided content.

4. Is it possible to anchor a kayak without using a trolley?
Yes, anchoring a kayak without a trolley is feasible, though it requires installing extra cleats for efficient anchor setting and retrieval. For calm waters, anchoring from the midship might work, but it is generally advisable to anchor from the bow or stern for better control.