2017 Ascend 128T kayak modifications, Trolling Motor and Helix 9 setup

Just a quick walk through on my 2017 Ascend 128T YakPower modifications. I installed a Minn Kota 55lb Enduramax trolling motor. I ran all the wiring through the hull for a clean looking setup. I also installed a Humminbird Helix 9 SI (Side Imaging) G2N unit to replace my Lowrance Elite5 Chirp. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to see something in more detail.
Here are the important items..
1/4" Starboard. I bought a 24"x 24" sheet that I cut and glued on my own. Easy to work with.
www.boatoutfitters.com/king-st...
MinnKota 55lb Endura Max - You can get this at any outdoor sporting goods store.
www.minnkotamotors.com/Trollin...
Rudder Tubing
www.austinkayak.com/products/3...
Clamshell Vents
www.walmart.com/ip/Attwood-Ma...
Weed Eater Line - Any line will work. Make sure it's .080 in diameter, round and smooth. Got mine at WalMart
Turnbuckles for steering - I would go into Home Depot and look at these to ensure they are the right size
www.homedepot.com/p/National-H...
3/8" All Thread Bolt - You'll need this to connect the turnbuckles. Had to cut it down to size too.
www.homedepot.com/p/Simpson-St...
Aluminum loop clips
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Handle to raise and lower TM. Replaced the line with 550 paracord.
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
MinnKota Receptacle Plug
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
Attwood TM Plugs for the front of the kayak. I had to use 8 gauge based on the MinnKota manual. Had to order from Academy.
www.attwoodmarine.com/store/pr...
V-Lock Base
store.v-lock.com/collections/...
V-Lock 90 Degree insert
store.v-lock.com/collections/...
Marine Goop - I used a lot of this for adhesive and sealant to prevent leaks.
www.amazon.com/Amazing-GOOP-1...
Battery - I have an Outlast 55amh I picked up from Battery Outfitters. I can't find it on their website but it ran me about $125.
Wire - Based on TM specs, I had to get 8 gauge wire to extend power. I used this wire for power and the trolling motor as well. I got 3 feet of black and red at Home Depot for consistency.
Stainless Steel nuts and bolts with large washers. I don't remember the exact sizes and numbers but I think I had 10 bolts in the TM mount which included the ones for the VLock.
I plan on changing out the pedals as they do not glide real easy after using it a few times. Just something to note.
I think this is most of it. Hope it helps!

[@user-yx6xx5wh5v]

*This makes my old motor look like a toy **enjoyable.fishing** recommend it's well built. I haven't had it on the water yet, but I'm very sure it will perform just fine.*

[@johnnfrancis]

I cannot tell you how many videos I've watched as research for potential mods, these mods are ALL essential IMO, yet you didn't over do it. Very clean install and all very purposeful and intentional.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Thank you, Sir!

[@roba7108]

Thanks for the detailed walk-around, and putting together all the hyperlinks to every product you talked about.

[@smithstonean]

Nothing like sharing ideas !! Nice job , I like the motor head ! Gives it a custom look . The shaft pulley is nice . Going to use both of them !

[@NSCA12]

By far the BEST yak setup I've seen!!! Congrats.

[@kayakfishing335hobie3]

look up kayakadventures210

[@arcstrider5728]

That's a legit set up right there dude..I recently picked up a custom trolling motor set up for my hobiePA.

[@cartsquads47]

Gotta be one of my favorite videos on KZbin of this kayak! Great setup... And with the Helix 9 is the icing on the cake!! I'm jealous! Everything on the kayak is perfect, The bigger 55lb trust motor, It has just the right amount of goodies and its not over done and tacky looking.

[@davidharkins5345]

Great video! NICE RIG! I got a boat just like yours about a month ago and now I'm wanting to set mine up and now seeing your boat I want to do mine like yours . You did a Great job on it 👍 Good luck on the National .

[@MrOffshore]

Nice work...you did a really nice and clean job rigging that kayak!!

[@baronalba5379]

Sick set up man. Can't wait to see it out on the water.

[@clints8731]

I have the same Kayak. I love the trolling motor set up you have. Totally fun. I have a 36 lb thrust motor and it pushes me along well. I couldn't imagine the larger motor that you have.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Go big or go home! lol

[@marshallhurt8814]

Great video as always, nice kayak, thanks for your support!

[@Tracer88]

Excellent setup, thanks for sharing!

[@jimd3039]

The Ascend looks friggin awesome! I just wish that you would have recorded during the upgrade process.

[@rickzipp751]

Nice man. Gave me some ideas for my yak. I have the exact same one you do n wanted to mount the trolling motor to. . Great video

[@jramirez3296]

Very cool yet functional setup.

[@jaradwhite9352]

Awsome... I have the same yak last years model and that is the best motor setup Ive seen yet

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Thank you!

[@eldoradodunn3]

That an awesome setup good job .

[@clfishing2788]

Side imaging on a kayak.... wow, nice rig dude! Good luck in the future

[@samuelalequin5889]

Awesome set up!!!

[@ajnunya5518]

Now that is a badass fishing kayak!!

[@Victorkayak]

awesome setup man nice 😎👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@pepecaleh6716]

This is a beast of a kayak 👊👌

[@BASSNGRASS]

Nice video man

[@juliette5871]

Great mods! I plan on getting a 128T soon and will definitely consider these mods. Will you do some "How To" videos that want to come along for the ride with you please. Would be very helpful and much appreciated I'm sure. Have a Great One and Keep em Bitin.

[@scuba6797]

Paint your garage, its ready for it, Nice job on the Yak too!

[@09ironman1]

nice set up

[@BubbavilleBassin]

that's a great set up man I have the same kayak i Iove that thing! I subed to your channle

[@jr74bronco]

Hey Ozarks Yak Angler Great video!! Have done a video on how you setup the trolling motor head, especially how you mounted the head and how you wired it in detail please Thanks

[@biggray94]

Got one today thanks

[@phillipimsdahl3563]

Nice job

[@danielmcnish6555]

Great vid. Looking to get one & add Hobie H rail on it, modify front space by shaping wood compartment to fit for battery/storage/etc., to look basically like the pro angler front hatch. I like you have clean setup.For the money & mods you can do to these Ascends, you can not beat the price. Good work.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Thanks Daniel, I appreciate the kind words. Be careful with using wood as it can get heavy in a hurry. Good luck!

[@danielmcnish6555]

yes sir, thank you.

[@danielmcnish6555]

i pulled up (king starboard) & man that stuff is incredible. All kind of kayak mods can be done out of this. Platforms, attachments, compartment ideas.etc.etc..Can order in sheets too or preferrred cut design. Good luck.

[@nickmcphall6417]

Any videos on the trolling motor install?

[@wooty8721]

awesome yak, seriously amazing, ive just got a 44 pound for mine and want to mount my motor in the exact same way but cant use my rudder pedals. need your creativity here in aus. :)

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I seen guys with handle extensions that run from the tm up to where they sit. Might look into that.

[@ironcathedral4723]

I was wondering if you had a video showing or explaining how you set up the rope pull in order to raise and lower the trolling motor

[@dustinhuff9042]

Would you consider making a detailed video on the mount for the trolling motor? Looking to build one and think yours looks pretty damn good.

[@williegalloway9080]

I really like your kayak setup especially how you did the power Motorhead I have a pelican 100 catch Pro I would like to do the same setup for my power Motorhead do you have a video that show how you did it or do you know of any videos that can show me how to do it once again I love the way you have your set up. Awesome 👍

[@jleonett]

Ozarks Yak Angler great video! Kayak looks mean and clean! For the Trolling Motor Power Head Unit, I am now looking to do the same for my 128T. How did you mount it behind the seat? What material (including dimensions) & method did you use?

[@user-bf5rf4hs8v]

I enjoy the motor very much, just make sure you know how to put it together

[@BillaBong1]

Oh man thats the perfect setup for me. I been searching hi and low for a kayak, fishinder, trolling motor setup. After last night i made my decision on wat to get and this morning i just woke up got on to youtube and wat did i see your setup!!! Thats my exact setup im planning to get when i get my tax return. Man great minds think alike lol. I just subscribed and loved this video. Do you have vidz on diy on all the stuff u installed? If not would you please make those vidz or send me links to those diy installation.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I'll be doing an update video very soon on this kayak. I've made a few changes I'll point out.

[@BillaBong1]

Ozarks Yak Angler thankz. Can u lead me to where to get that mount for the helix unit.? Im getting it all today. Lol

[@wgtutor]

Hurry with the update ...please ! I'm in the middle of an install myself and could use a little input of what works or not .

[@kevinbrown1278]

Brian you have one of the most clean set up that i have seen on youtube great gob on your im looking in to buying the Ascend 128T and i wanted to put a troll motor on it but didnt know how i was going to do the set up but after looking at you video i feel much better now great video keep them coming . Quick question on the troll motor did you say you using a 55 lb. or a 30 lb. troll motor?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

In this video I have a 55lb installed. I burned that up (doing something stupid) and put on a 40lb to replace it. If I were to do this all over again, the 40lb is more the sufficient and is almost as fast as the 55lb. Battery life is better on the 40lb too. I would suggest going with a 40lb for cost and weight savings. Good luck!

[@themaestro5338]

Love it. Great video. Who are the people that down vote quality videos? Weirdos.

[@TheCampfirekitchen]

I was curious how many batt you are running. I’m considering running two small bettered or one small and one big 12 volt. I was wondering if the kayak handle or is more stable with the extra weight with all the gear you have. I’ve taken it out couple times now and had the seat in the highest level and seemed little un stable. Maybe it was bc I haven’t been in a kayak in a little while or it was meant to be weighted down. Thanks great video. I will have one coming soon with many of your mods and more. Very clean. Idk how many times I’ve watched yours for ideas and tweaks lol

[@anthonyvespia6662]

Bad ass vessel she's beautiful. I finally recieved my new feel free moken 10 V2, camo green. I purchased my 2.5 suzuki outboard, with a side fitted transom mount island hopper outboard makes. Put my scotty outriggers on. I've only had her out once from morning to nite. I reached 11.8 mph, with most of my fishing equipment. This winter she'll get more accessories, like a little kid. I did want to ask, did you re-do the floor deck, or is it factory. I want to put a softer decking with more grip. But that kayak is sweet. Love all our differences in setups..Be safe..

[@ShacksOutdoorAdventures]

Looks great!! I have the same Yak, did some small mods as well, would love to pick your brain on the tolling motor. I think that is my next purchase.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Shack's Outdoor Adventures No problem. Let me know what your questions are. I'll be more than happy to answer anything I can.

[@ShacksOutdoorAdventures]

do you have a list of parts along with the trolling motor you purchased?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Here are the important items.. 1/4" Starboard. I bought a 24"x 24" sheet that I cut and glued on my own. Easy to work with. www.boatoutfitters.com/king-starboard-cut-to-size.html?gclid=COvO46--ktMCFUpNfgod6pQHMg MinnKota 55lb Endura Max - You can get this at any outdoor sporting goods store. www.minnkotamotors.com/Trolling-Motors/Freshwater-Transom-Mount/Endura-Max/ Rudder Tubing www.austinkayak.com/products/3065/Harmony-Gear-Kayak-Rudder-Cable-Tubing.html Clamshell Vents www.walmart.com/ip/Attwood-Marine-Clamshell-Vent/49764630 Weed Eater Line - Any line will work. Make sure it's .080 in diameter, round and smooth. Got mine at WalMart Turnbuckles for steering - I would go into Home Depot and look at these to ensure they are the right size www.homedepot.com/p/National-Hardware-3-8-in-x-16-in-Zinc-Plated-Hook-Eye-Turnbuckle-2172BC-3-8X16-TBKL-H-E/204590270 3/8" All Thread Bolt - You'll need this to connect the turnbuckles. Had to cut it down to size too. www.homedepot.com/p/Simpson-Strong-Tie-3-8-in-x-72-in-All-Thread-Rod-ATR3-8X72/205330037 Aluminum loop clips www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CECMB1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Handle to raise and lower TM. Replaced the line with 550 paracord. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00164ANLU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 MinnKota Receptacle Plug www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PTHKRQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Attwood TM Plugs for the front of the kayak. I had to use 8 gauge based on the MinnKota manual. Had to order from Academy. www.attwoodmarine.com/store/product/electrical-female-connector V-Lock Base store.v-lock.com/collections/v-lock-products/products/v-lock-base V-Lock 90 Degree insert store.v-lock.com/collections/v-lock-products/products/insert Marine Goop - I used a lot of this for adhesive and sealant to prevent leaks. www.amazon.com/Amazing-GOOP-170011-Marine-Adhesive/dp/B000BQUI7S Battery - I have an Outlast 55amh I picked up from Battery Outfitters. I can't find it on their website but it ran me about $125. Wire - Based on TM specs, I had to get 8 gauge wire to extend power. I used this wire for power and the trolling motor as well. I got 3 feet of black and red at Home Depot for consistency. Stainless Steel nuts and bolts with large washers. I don't remember the exact sizes and numbers but I think I had 10 bolts in the TM mount which included the ones for the VLock. I plan on changing out the pedals as they do not glide real easy after using it a few times. Just something to note. I think this is most of it. Hope it helps!

[@ShacksOutdoorAdventures]

OzarkYak Angler thanks so much for your help. That starboard is hard to find in Cincinnati

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Shack's Outdoor Adventures I ordered my Starboard online. Took just a few days to get it.

[@coltonrogers7398]

Where did you order you replacement rear compartment lid??? I’ve looked everywhere!!!

[@michaelsummerford2360]

Hey bud what did you use to mount the head to the starboard and can you explain to me the wiring that u did from the motor to the plugs to the battery and from the head to the plugs thanks bud

[@TheKrosanRyu]

Would you be kind enough to elaborate on how you wired the head unit and lower unit to the battery? Is it as simple as running wires from head unit to battery and running wires from the shaft/lower unit to battery?

[@sunsportsdan]

Can you still spin your chair around without hitting the handle? I have the exact same set and I am thinking about doing my trolling motor the same way.

[@jerryf5269]

Nice !! Where did you bought the pulley to raise the motor?

[@rickzipp751]

Where do you get the lids. Mine broke as well and need to get one

[@michaelholloway4801]

How did you run the weed eater string is there a video on that wanting to do the same tia

[@tylerelkins9619]

Just curious but about how much weight did all the mods. add to the total weight of the Yak???

[@rowdykelley5539]

I have the same Kayak but a bit different setup. However I am wondering what battery you are using?

[@bigrexj4078]

I'm REALLY digging your troll motor setup. I'll be reaching out to you to find out how easy and clean the install was. I just picked up at 2017 128T yesterday and I already have a 55lb troll motor from my old Jon Boat.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Send me any questions you may have. Make sure you think through your plan before you start cutting and drilling. Helps to prevent accidentally putting holes in your kayak where you don't need them.

[@austinchristopher187]

Can someone please tell me what the ports are called that the cables for the troll motor are run through? I can’t find anything similar online for installing one on my kayak. Any help would be hugely appreciated

[@keithparknow5116]

I appreciate you taking the time to show us how you set everything up. Well done. I know you can raise and lower the motor but if you inadvertently run over something can the motor tilt forward, is it hinged? Or how do you deal with that?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Keith Parknow Yes it can. I put a zip tie around the release lever so it’s never locked in place.

[@davidcart273]

This is a very nice set up how much is it to set that all up, electrics and motors. My next question is how did you know how to do this, did u watch a video or know a buddy

[@kravanamjesecu]

That is one sweet yak,I wouldn't mind owning it.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Sold it a couple years ago

[@user-vr8tf5oi6u]

Great video on your yak mods. Where did you get the "V-Lock" bracket. That seems to make for a quick easy removal. Thx

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

The V-Lock system is very sweet and does make it easy to setup and remove the motor. Links are also in the description. Good luck! store.v-lock.com/collections/v-lock-products/products/v-lock-base store.v-lock.com/collections/v-lock-products/products/insert

[@reelskillangleroutdoors8598]

Do you have a video on how you re wired your trolly motor ?

[@jamesspalding3159]

Nice vid. I really like how you can raise and lower the trolling motor. What kind of pulley did you mount to the trolling motor?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

It's a Harkin Pulley. Same pulleys on a a YakAttack anchor trolley. www.amazon.com/Yak-Gear-PUL-HARK-Harken-Pulley-Kit/dp/B00FA3RRKS/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=harken+pulley&qid=1581606179&sr=8-2

[@williamknight5886]

Where did you order the lid from I need 2 for mine

[@TheChico1332]

I like the set up that you did with the trolling motor. How exactly did you attach it? I know you said starboard, but I believe I see a ring or another mount under the motor head..Thanks much

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

That's a PVC connection I purchased from Lowe's or Home Depot. Basically, it's a connection where I connected one end to Starboard base and the other to the trolling motor head. It screw locks down and has a hole so I can pass the wires down through the hull. Sorry, I don't recall the name of the connection. I'll try to highlight it when I do the follow up video in a few weeks.

[@bradydillow353]

Love the setup! I am currently trying to do this same type of thing to my 128T and I was wondering how you are transporting the Kayak with the stern handle covered up by the trolling motor? I made a set of wheels for mine but it isn't always the easiest to maneuver.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I used a trailer for while and just backed it in the water at ramps. Decided to to ditch the trailer the last year I owned it. Transported it in the back of my truck. I would slide it out into the water on the ramps. I never had a need for a back handle.

[@ejr791]

Hello… how you make the connection for the trolling motor????

[@DuckySlimes]

Hi - great set up. I’m in the middle of converting my kayak now. What kind of tubing and size did you run from the trolling motor to the plug? It looks like 1/2” split tubing. Thanks!

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I don't remember the size but 1/2" sounds right. Picked it up at Harbor Freight.

[@landomitchell1509]

Man I LOVE your setup. Nice and clean and all of the things that are necessary!But i do have one question. Do you have any info or videos of your box?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Box? Not sure what you mean. Are you asking about the BlackPak tackle box?

[@landomitchell1509]

OzarkYak Angler yes sir I am

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

It's a YakAttack BlackPak. Extremely durable tackle and gear storage box. There are many KZbin vids on this. www.yakattack.us/by-product-name/blackpak/

[@landomitchell1509]

OzarkYak Angler awesome, thank you for the info!

[@skoldiersoup8409]

Biggest fish finder on a kayak award goes to!

[@craigcwillard]

What madel trolling motor did you use?

[@jasonschoenhoff4486]

How did you mount the transducer?

[@israelg.3634]

Is it true that it’s difficult to paddle in this kayak because of its weight

[@keithlapere7650]

Nice installment. Where did you purchase your "cable entry-exit cover plates"? Thx in advance.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

They are Clam Shell Vents. Link is in the description.

[@kenriddle5409]

Awsome currently adding one to mine could you tell ne where you purchased all your electrical connectors and what type they are? Also did you make the mount for the motor controller or purchase it? any info would be great want to do it right the first time thanks

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I used butt connectors on all the wiring then put heat shrink over the top to help hold it all together and keep it waterproof. You can get them at any hardware store but make sure you purchase the right size based on the size of wire you are using. I used 8 gauge wire for everything on the TM. The mounting plates are Starboard. I used 1/4" for the Humminbird and TM Head unit and 1/2" (two 1/4" pieces glued together) for the TM mount. Battery is a 12V 55amh sealed deep cycle battery. Got it from my local Battery Outfitters. I just added the parts list to the description as well. Good luck!

[@samuelalequin5889]

Where did you buy the lids ?

[@digntime967]

Which V-Lock base is it that you have ??

[@jamesk10turbo47]

Couple of dumb questions for ya. What type of screws are you using for the starboard plates? How is the trolling motor head mounted to the plate? What’s holding the battery down? Velcro? Thanks!

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

JamesK10turbo I just used some 1.5 inch stainless steel bolts, washers and locking nuts. The power head is held down with a PVC connection. It has 3 sections to it. Base, cap and middle section. The base is screwed into the starboard. The cap and middle section are attached to the power head. When you screw the cap onto the base, it locks down the middle section that is attached to the power head. Not sure the name of the pvc connection but you find it at Home Depot. The battery is not held down with anything. However, I do have a battery tray glued down inside the back hatch. It rarely come off that tray.

[@aaronschmidt437]

So I am adding the same anchor trolly to the same kayak. Did you put a backing plate behind the pulley in the front? If so how did you get it up there? I really dont want to cut into the front deck

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I've never used backing plates for the anchor trolley's. I use the tri-tip rivets and they seem to work just fine.

[@alexivey6773]

Awesome vid! Did u custom make that trolling motor or did u buy it like that?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I built the mount and rewired the trolling motor through the hull. I also cut down the shaft so it didn't stick too far up in the air. So I guess the answer is yes, I customized it myself.

[@CastToCatch]

Right before the trolling motor you have those 2 black plastic pieces that hold your rudder tubing and are screwed down. Where did you get those? I need that badly!

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

They are called Clam Shell Vents. I bought mine on Walmart.com. Might be able to find them on Amazon or other places now.

[@jesusmora6397]

same was wondering how the v lock has held up for you cheers

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

After 2 years of use, the Starboard mounting plate and V-lock system are still rock solid. Follow this design and you should not have any problems.

[@toddgianfala9598]

Nice rig.... I have a landscape maintenance company and as an FYI, trimmer (weedeater) line will degrade in sunlight and losses a lot of strength and durability. There is also a trimmer line with a cable in it that might last longer....like I said just an FYI.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Todd Gianfala I changed out the weed eater line with galvanized steel wire. Weed eater line had too much stretch. Working on an update video and I’ll point that out.

[@nickbridge214]

Is what looks like 2x4 pieces attached to the bent vlock insert bolted through the insert or just attached the wood pieces to each other only one on each side?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Yea, I used two 2x4 pieces and sandwiched the insert between them. I drilled it out so I could run bolts through. Probably could have come up with something nicer but it worked.

[@matthewdilsaver327]

How stable is the TM mount? Did you run bolts through and secure them inside the boat or did you use screws into the plastic of the boat? Thanks.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

10 total bolts with backing plates on the inside. 6 bolts directly in the mount and 4 additional bolts in the v-lock. I also sealed with an adhesive called E6000. Super sturdy!

[@kenriddle5409]

I almost forgot what type battery is it

[@v8consumption]

how long does battery last in yak

[@Useless_Knowledge07]

nice work! What gauge wire did you use for your trolling motor plug?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Anthony Johansen 10g

[@arizmendez1988]

How does this Kayak handle with these awesome mods? I know it only has 350 lb capacity and Im about 200lb. Just wondering how stable after adding all the mods. Im looking at purchasing this kayak but not sure yet.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I'm about 210 lb. With all my gear and mods, the 128T is still very stable. No complaints.

[@angelcolon51]

What are those covers that cover the line from the trolley motor to the kayak called I've been looking for some but I don't know what they're called and where to get them.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Clamshell Vents. I have a link in the description on where to buy them.

[@zachoryboozel9772]

If this is still active, did you have to run separate power units for the motor? Mine came with with the yak attack power system and I am afraid to overdue it.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Yes I did. The Yak Power system is not designed to handle the voltage for a trolling motor. You need at least 10-8 gauge wire for most trolling motors. The owners manual will indicate how big of wire you'll need.

[@bobcibak]

Just got the Helix unit for my yak, what transducer mount do you use and is it stable running through the water? Any wobble at all?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I use the RAM Transducer arm.. I've never experienced any wobble from it.

[@jerrykrobby]

Looks great! At the rear of the kayak on each side where the weed eater line goes into the top of the side rail looks like you installed some type of protector. What is that called? Thanks!

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Clam shell vents

[@jerrykrobby]

Ozarks Yak Angler thanks!

[@thomasharp3246]

This yak has a weight limit of like 350. Do you think they're playing it really safe? Some rate over 500 idk why this is so light?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I found it to be very stable. The primary stability wasn't great but the secondary stability was. Standing wasn't easy since the lack of primary stability would cause the kayak to rock quite a bit. However, sitting and leaning over the side to net a fish was no problem for me as the secondary stability was great and I never feared flipping.

[@bradclement6355]

Nice yak, I'm having trouble finding the sleeves where the steering line enters the kayak. Do you know what they are called and or where to find them

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

It's called Rudder Tubing. There is a link in the description

[@raymondsuckow1569]

Very nice yak I have the same one wondering how does the motor work being in the back as far as how do you get weeds off if need be trying to figure out best place to mount mine on back or side of yak thanks CATCH.PHOTO.RELEASE

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Raymond Suckow Haven't had to deal with that yet. When I get into skinny water I just raise it. I'm sure I'll have to go to the bank if and when that happens.

[@poorboytrucking1]

I bought a 80ah battery but it's to big to fit under the back hatch. are you getting pretty good run times from the 55ah battery? I have the same minnkota motor.

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

55lb TM with a 55amh battery is supposed to get 1 hour of run time at full speed. My battery can last all day as I don't usually run more than a mile from where I launch. I use it all day to position my kayak while fishing an area or fishing down a shoreline. I rarely use my paddle on most trips when using my TM. I was actually surprised how much run time I get on the 55amh battery. Hope this helps.

[@bigalcervantes5118]

Nice yak, after all is said and done how much total did it cost you to modify? For example trolling motor, sonar,and batteries? looks like u invested quite a bit of cash. Very well done. done can u do a video on mounting the trolling motor?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I've got about $2500 into it.

[@rrackow]

Do you have a template for the trolling motor mount? We just ordered some starboard and would like to do a similar mod. and how did you do the pedals?

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

I have a piece of cardboard.. lol! I just laid the cardboard on the kayak and traced along the edge. Once you have it cut, can do little clean up cuts and sand down the edges. I glued the two 1/4" pieces together first before cutting. Makes it a lot easier to line up. Good Luck!

[@kg4geq]

Awesome setup! I have fs128T and live in MO. Not sure if you do or not based on your name? If so, did you have to register your yak adding the trolling motor? thanks for showing your mods, very helpful!

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

Yea.. unfortunately, I'm aware of the new registration law. I have not registered my kayak yet but plan on doing so in the next week or two. I'm in Springfield and fish Table Rock, Taneycomo, Pomme de Terre and Stockton most often.

[@mrmalone28]

I also live in MO. I wasn’t aware you have to register it with a trolling motor. Glad I saw this.

[@hardwood29]

I am also in Springfield, mo and just picked a kayak like this in a trade, I’ve been trying to search questions but on my kayak there is that foam up in the way to where you mount the fish finder and the board, how did you get around this? Can it just be pulled out? I have the 2019 model not sure if that matters or not.

[@keithgearhart1594]

If you put it in where did you get the little black things on the back of the boat where the cable comes out and what are they called

[@BrianHillmanFishing]

They are called Clam Shell Vents. The link is in the description on where I got them.