Ascend FS12T Modifications with trolling motor

Updated modifications to a 2015 Bass Pro Shops Ascend FS12T kayak. Thanks to Boyer2122 for the trolling motor mounting idea.

[@corazondevagabont86]

*Very well-made, stable, comfortable **enjoyable.fishing** recommend love that everything fits in bag. Easy to paddle for single person as well, however might be too heavy to carry by one.*

[@elaskowski2]

Just wanted to say great job on being creative, excellent problem solving skills, and on being thorough even to the details, as you know it really makes a difference to do things right. You have a good engineering/mechanical mind. Also thanks for making a great video. I can't get my bay boat onto the super shallow flats in TX and it's too far to paddle. You gave me a lot of great ideas for my kayak.

[@GLADE8UR]

Very well thought out and executed... job well done.

[@lawrence9217]

Nice video, like the thought and explanation of each part.

[@nicholasallan9248]

i have the same yak and i really like the non permanent trolling motor mount. also mounting the fish finder on tge lid is a great idea.

[@mutinyrider666]

The yak itself is a non permanent mount .I don't understand ..unless you have a yak that has a super thick sidewall behind the seat just clamp it to it and fold it over and go .will hold perfectly fine and no need for a mount

[@steventaylor7493]

Hi. Absolutely love everything you did.

[@wkcinaz]

Very nice setup. I’m looking into doing something like this with mine.

[@shafarisah5216]

Brilliant trolling motor mounting holder... I like...

[@kenfett7070]

Thank you very much. If I can be of assistance let me know.

[@jpfishin66]

Just bought the same kayak thanks for sharing the video I will be using your tips to fix my kayak.

[@kenfett7070]

If you have any questions let me know. Have fun with it.

[@kenfett7070]

Jose, how'd ya make out with your upgrades?

[@Bassfishin401]

@@kenfett7070 hey what size pvc is that?

[@johnnyanderson4464]

Like the way you got it set up

[@kenfett7070]

Thank you so much.

[@Voxguitarsrock]

Nice set up!

[@DanielLopez-ux1io]

What a godly kayak

[@shaulgovea6699]

I got the same kayak… wow looks amazing.

[@ethanmacheras5967]

I like how the trolling motor is mounted

[@bigblizzyyss7435]

Nice set up brotha!

[@kenfett7070]

Thank you. When I get a chance I will be doing a follow up video showing my biggest addition so far. I really appreciate the feedback.

[@JESSEPAVON]

I like how you placed the motor further back, many people instal it next to them and the kayak wouldn’t turn properly, it wants to go sideways. I’m gonna do the same but a little further back. Also probably a 50 instead of a 30. Thanks for the great video.

[@the101dad]

I have a 45 and it works amazing.

[@mutinyrider666]

Please before you build a mount give it a shot..just clamp the thing right to the boat behind the seat .you won't regret it. Grips find and I tighten the hell out of it and no issues and is easy to deploy and stow . 0 need to create a mount ..the boat is the mount

[@rickylove619]

Love it man

[@mattyc596]

Great vid, might give this setup a go. Thanks!

[@kenfett7070]

Thank you for watching, I'd be happy to help with any questions. Have fun!

[@mattyc596]

@@kenfett7070 actually fabricated one a couple weeks back, been out 4 or 5 times, works great, thanks for the inspiration!

[@bobcary7780]

Hi Ken - I installed Yak Trak on each side atop the gunnels behind my seat. I bolted L brackets to the Yak Trak with stainless steel T-bolts. I mounted the L brackets on a painted and sealed 2x8 all installed just behind my seat. The 2x8 hangs off the edge by 8 to 10 inches where the motor clamps onto it. The extension handle works collapsed or extended and allows me to rest my arm while motoring. May not track as well as a motor in the back but I don't have to worry about raising it in shallow water. By my side, I simply reach down, release the shaft latch, tilting/raising the propeller to rest on the rear gunnel so the boat supports the weight of the motor. (Bob)

[@kenfett7070]

bob cary I agree with you. It may not track as well, although I wouldn't know, but I have no problems with it on the side either. Looking forward to getting out here in PA once the weather warms up!

[@jeffcollins1172]

bob cary hey Bob, can you send a picture of your setup, I’m trying to get ideas. I’d love to be able to put a motor on and off when I need it. I go to Lake Havasu which is a chain of lakes and dams on a river system in Arizona, could use the motor while heading upriver.

[@jeffcollins1172]

Send it to my email, [e-mail], thanks

[@craig1lengyel]

I like it. Nice job.

[@collowood]

great set up

[@toejammin77]

Bought a Wahoo kyack last year to fish Naples Bay and back waters. It already had trolling motor on a side mount. Hated it. Especially if trying to make a turn into the wind. So I built a homemade transom to mount the motor on the rear, bought an extension with built in u-joint so I could steer from the seat. Had to actually jerry=rig the extension to make it longer but now have much better maneuverability and better speed.

[@poundcakedisco]

Great video. Everyone praises these crazy builds but like you said, nothing beats being able to take it off in seconds

[@mutinyrider666]

Can literally clamp a trolling motor directly to the boat for anyone wondering and not wanting to make a mount .i feel like i haven't found a single video of anyone doing that and an surprised. Done it that way on my ascend and my vibe for years with zero issues. Nothing wrong with the safety and fun of making a mount, but anyone wondering , you can just literally clamp to the boat and go and folds up behind the seat

[@datadynamics240]

How did you clamp it on the back of a 12T model ? Did you make a mount ? How did you do it ? What type of clamp are you using ?

[@fishandfrog2251]

@@datadynamics240I tried doing this and it fell off and almost broke I would not recommend it. For my 12t I made the wood frame and it works easy and was cheap

[@ChristopherJoelThomspon]

Hey Ken, just saw your video…my mods mirror your mods pretty good. My question is, how was the balance with your marine battery, trolling motor and your seat focused toward the stern? Not too heavy in the back? I’m curious if you needed to move the battery towards the bow and if you moved your trolling motor to the rear

[@samuelburnes4869]

Marine Outlet here in Temple, Texas has that battery box and sells the xI3 and we will ship nationally.

[@k9kayaks]

Sorry if missed it but did you install a kill switch for the trolling motor?

[@RyanONeill86]

This is a great platform for me to start my DIY additions. I have the Ascend 10T. I see with the way you mounted the trolling motor you can’t easily, or on the fly, pull the motor up from out of the water? Looks like you’d have to reach all the way around the back of your seat to do that. Wondering if you still have it mounted that way or what problems, if any, you ran into with that?

[@desert8285]

Nice..do you find the trolling motor is to far back or is it ok there? Getting ready to do mine. Thanks

[@paulmarklund3891]

Where did you get the trolling motor mount? Did you make that?

[@nomadbrig2850]

How did you run your power cable for the fish finder?

[@REDCRANE1944]

Thanks for the video. I'm thinking of using your idea for the motor on my Eagle Talon. I just bought a Minn Kota Endura Max 40. It's heavy hope I didn't mess up. LOL

[@kenfett7070]

Would like to see the end result.

[@JESSEPAVON]

I had a 55 lb new vessels, was toooo heavy 23 lb to be exact. Was way too fast and drained the battery too fast also. Just sold it and bought a 36lb new vessel that is only 18lb heavy.

[@brandonsides4589]

Nice video. Link for the trolling motor/ battery box mount?

[@Aesop101]

Mad skills

[@kenfett7070]

Thank you and thank you for watching!

[@rushhourfishing2946]

where did you buy that aluminum frame that the battery is stored in?

[@mikehancho7428]

Hey! Thanks for the video. What size PVC did you use for the rod holders in the back? Although I have the 2017 12T, i'm guessing the stock rod holders are the same size. I can't get 1 1/4" in mine without really forcing it.

[@kenfett7070]

I went with the 1-1/4 but had to shave it down (four inches from the bottom) to make it thinner, on a grinder to get them to fit inside the rod holders. If I could post a picture I would. If you're on Facebook, there is a Ascend Kayak Owners group that you can join and I could post more details. Appreciate the comment and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

[@phil2537]

another way to reduce the diameter of the 1 1/4 PVC is to cut a line up the length of the PVC. It will allow the PVC to compress a bit when putting it into the rod holders.

[@romans567]

Did you use nuts to attach the side handles? If so, how did you get to the inside?

[@ddabney67]

Nice detailed video. Nice lanyard! Go AF! 21A '89-'16

[@joeparrillo7075]

Get you post the measurements of the box you made for the trolling motor and battery?

[@tonydeppen6500]

Do you need to build the frame or do you think I could run that clam on the yak itself?

[@garcummings208]

Where’d you get the frame you used for your motor mount/battery cage?

[@mitchellsceviour5051]

Where is the video for that box ? I love that idea!

[@tmstoddard]

Love your setup! Put the troller on the back though, you won't be sorry!

[@datadynamics240]

Ken did you ever find the box on KZbin rack ? Someone gave me a 12T for free and going to mod it out. Did you ever mount the Engine to the front to see if there were any benefits or back? Thanks

[@mannysalazar1124]

Question, with the trolling motor side mounted how does it track? Do you constantly have to adjust direction?

[@kenfett7070]

Tracks perfectly fine. I've been very happy with the ease to remove the motor when I don't need it. I love the permanent rear mounts but I like the option to get rid of it. Thanks for posting.

[@quinnokeefe4684]

Hey, terrific video! Was wondering if you’ve had any stability issues since raising the seat? The lakes I fish get a little windy, so I’m hesitant to offset the center of gravity.

[@kenfett7070]

I decided against raising the seat. I tried it a couple times and it felt a little unstable for my liking. I know other people have no issues but it wasn't for me.

[@tripb2177]

Hey ken, I have a question about your trolling motor. Does it have a stopping point at how far it can turn? Or can it just do a full 360. I’m wondering because most diy mounts you see have the motor mounting bracket across the kayak rather than on the side. I was thinking that was maybe because of a limited turn radius.

[@kenfett7070]

brad leptich I can do a full 360 turn with no problem since the shaft height can be adjusted.

[@kenfett7070]

Unfortunately the weather here in Southeastern PA has either been freezing and snowing up until the end of April and pouring rain or ungodly hot since May, on my days off of course, I haven't been out as much as I like. Looking forward to a more mild fall.

[@jornelindberg5127]

Do u have to keep the motor turned at an angle to go straight?

[@Ncbasspuller]

nice man

[@jamesh3633]

Does it lean at all when you reach for the trolling motor? Looks like you got trolling motor and anchor on the same side, is there anything you used to counter balance it?

[@kenfett7070]

I get very little lean, in fact rarely noticeable at all. Although my anchor trolley is on the same side I never used the anchor with the trolling motor mounted. I only use the anchor without the motor. Thanks for watching and inquiring about the setup.

[@Sojourner-ql6du]

If you read the data sheet for Marine Goop, it is NOT recommended for polyethylene....which the FS128T is made of. I strongly recommend Sika 291.

[@kenfett7070]

Sojourner 2016 Thanks for the tip.

[@greymanadventures2977]

Love the setup! I ride a Colorado pontoon and use a lot of the same ideas. What did you use for the transducer setup? Looks like the base is from Scotty but what is the pole attachment?

[@kenfett7070]

It's a Scotty mount from Amazon. It's awesome and definitely better than my original in hull mount.

[@nagazinafireworks7594]

Thanks for the video, are you still happy with that setup? or would you change anything with it? How many inch shaft is that trolling motor ? Thanks

[@ryankelly6126]

Hi does it make any difference if motor is on the side or the back in performance

[@anthonyvespia6662]

Hey Ken, love the setup. Question. How much does your trolling motor weigh? I finally got my feel free moken 10 V2, right before xmas. They make a fitted aluminum side transom, which I already purchased, along with my Suzuki 2.5 outboard. I only weigh around 150lbs which is why I wanted a 10ft kayak. My outboard weighs 28lbs, with fuel in the tank, maybe 30lbs total. I was going to get the Minn-kota 30lb thrust. I fish on a 900 acre freshwater lake. I have a heart condition. That is why I needed the motor, but I will also paddle when I jump from spot to spot. I can finally explore lots of open water fishing. Thanks be safe.

[@MikeC-my4lf]

I have a 10' kayak. I outweigh you by 55lbs and haven't taken my kayak out with new mods. I put a trolling motor with mount that also holds rods, fish finder, anchor. I believe I'm going to have to add some outriggers because of the weight. I also gave a bad ticker. How did your set up work out for you?

[@christopherleal9017]

Bad ass, how did you figure out your measurements for the trolling motor bracket/mount if you don’t mind me asking?

[@kenfett7070]

I measured the beam width and then made sure I could fit a milk crate in the middle. It's been in storage since last summer and I'm taking it out 3/30/19. I can measure it and post it back here with your comment. Thanks for watching.

[@alexunderwood5048]

Ken Fett did you ever measure the bracket?

[@2chainz51]

Wondering if we could get those measurements

[@RyanONeill86]

CT EDits it’s prob best to measure yourself and put the battery in there and customize it to your liking. He gave you a good idea of wha tit could look like so from here I’m gonna take that and DIY my own variation!

[@michaelgerolaga9803]

How is the balance with the motor weight on one side ?

[@CrabbinNFishin]

Can you offer more details on the trolling motor / battery tie down set up?

[@dhuze66]

I'm stealing that 4 rod holder idea.

[@popaki9484]

Nice set up! The eyelets you installed...did you have to use a bolt on the underside? Just curious how you got it secured. Thanks!

[@jamesh3633]

I don't know for sure but he probably used well/expansion nuts. I know he said he used them for something but not sure what

[@kenfett7070]

Not 100% sure which eyelets you may be referring to but all attachment point eyelets on the kayak have been set in with a pop rivet with the exception of the four stainless eyelets used on the trolling motor mounting box and used with a stainless washer and lock nut. Hope that helps and feel free to ask any questions that may help you. Thank you for watching!

[@ADDICTED2FISHINGTX]

Nice! 👍🏻 I want one. The reviews are so up and down, just really hard to beat the price.

[@kenfett7070]

It's given me no trouble and I've absolutely loved it so far.

[@jimdotdev]

Ya mine is great aswell. Though, if they would've made the paddle holder mold width ways a few inches up more you could open the compartment while your paddle is rested there. Not such a big problem since I've added a trolling motor

[@alwaysreppin209er8]

Awesome Vid man. Would this Kayak be ok to use fishing in Salt water?

[@kenfett7070]

Jerry Velasco Not with that particular motor. I do plan on getting the riptide which is designed for salt water.

[@edstaples2885]

Just wondering if you decided to leave seat at raised level or stock I just bought a new 12t and looking for a few ideals. Thanks in advance.

[@johnnyappleseed9762]

Ed. I know ya didn't ask me..but i have a 12t also, I have a 17lb trolling mtr and threw the seat away.. I use a 2x6 ON TOP of where the back of the seat was..and 2x4 for the motor mount. tough to imagine but I stand up to fish and only sit down to motor for any length of time. love it . I sight fish mostly , seldom blind cast, so these seats are for trolling guys. depends what you are doing. he's got a sweet set up though.

[@THEFALCON58]

Hi could use a sail and tac to come in zig zag in save weight.?

[@davidleetch486]

I’ve watched your video a bunch because I have this exact kayak and your t motor mount/Rod holders etc are exactly what I am going to do, my question is the power cables running to to your fish finder, where are they? Did you drill a hole through your “hull” to feed them up to the hatch area?

[@tylerjohn8565]

David Leetch I’m not the video owner, but watching the video it looks like he drilled that second hole in the hatch to feed the wires through. Keeps them in the hull when he’s not using, but takes white cap off and runs them through that hole to the fish finder when he’s on. I’m thinking he has a smaller battery in the hull for it.

[@davidleetch486]

Tyler Gilpin thank you, I’m trying to figure out if he drilled a hole horizontally through the hull behind the seat?

[@tylerjohn8565]

David Leetch not positive again, but he might have a separate small 12v battery.

[@kenfett7070]

David Leetch I have a small 6v battery in a waterproof battery box inside the kayak. It has a quick disconnect so that I can remove it to recharge. The battery cable goes up through the metal conduit that is drilled through the hatch lid. I'm so sorry for the delayed response.

[@MGKoutdoors]

How stable is it for standing? Im 6”2’ 220lbs.

[@josephhecht2439]

How do you counteract tilt with the troller bro?

[@H-sgracesavedme1711]

Thanks for the video! Question: is having the trolley motor on the side having your yak pull or uneven as you stop to cast?

[@kenfett7070]

I've had zero issues tracking or casting with it mounted on the side.

[@H-sgracesavedme1711]

Ken Fett Thank you for the feedback. One more question(s): where did you put you battery and why??

[@kenfett7070]

@@H-sgracesavedme1711 my battery is directly behind my seat. I added a cutting board to distribute the weight better so it wouldn't make an indent in the kayak if the weather gets too hot. Unfortunately I haven't been out since September due to coaching and time restrictions.

[@JohnnyQuestFishing]

I like your idea of not doing anything permanent. I just got a troll motor for my Ascend 12T Kayak. I was thinking. Won't it be better balanced if the Battery is up front and the Motor is where it is right now. I don't know, It seemed it would create a better balance in weight. Just a thought, I have not mounted mine yet.

[@kenfett7070]

I've always had it behind me because of the space behind the seat as well as eliminating wires in front of me. I've considered the front because I agree about the balance. Although I haven't had any balances issues with it so far.

[@rileymaas4678]

Is this kayak sturdy enough to stand up in a fish

[@huckfin8666]

The dog was telling you to move the cart more in the middle it will allow rolling your kayak much easier I know ! And use a rachet strap it will feel like moving a two pound kayak, just don't leave strap for long periods. Gone fishing !!!

[@bobbyross9419]

what's your power supply for the garmin? does that go to the battery box?

[@kenfett7070]

I have a small 6v Duracell SLA in a waterproof box that I keep inside the hull

[@hectorminator89]

What do you use to transport the kayak? Thanks

[@kenfett7070]

I have a hitch extender and transport it in the back of my pickup truck.

[@lucasfilipe4563]

which charger do you use for mightymax 12v 60Amp Hr battery?

[@stevenlin7490]

Did you need to cover the wire, just in case for water?

[@kenfett7070]

Are you referring to the trolling motor? If so it's not covered. As for my depth finder, all my wires are inside my hull. Hope that helps. If not I'd be glad to answer any questions.

[@joshuabritt9514]

Good mods how did you make the rod holders?

[@kenfett7070]

I apologize for the delay but this comment just came up in my notifications. I just used 2 T connectors and two 4 ways, (so the rod handles fit through). One 6 foot piece of PVC and cut to my own preference. I'll post more about it once I take it out of storage.

[@dillongibson7548]

Can you provide the dimensions for the trolling motor mount? I’m going to do this on mine.

[@stewjr3573]

I'm getting a trolling motor for my kayak... should i put it on the front side or back?

[@kenfett7070]

Definitely behind you so it's out of the way while fishing. I can usually guide it by using my elbow and moving the control handle.

[@steventaylor7493]

Hi,one thing I did was went to a 50 ah battery.Only 13 lbs

[@adampayne962]

How do you transport your 12t to the lake, do you use a trailer?

[@kenfett7070]

I used to use a bed extender but I picked up a jet ski trailer for $100 to transport it. We've had lots of rain here the past couple weekends but if the weather permits soon I plan on doing a follow up video about the pro's and cons of a trailer.

[@joeholzman1271]

when you troll is it hard to turn wide or is it unstable with the side mount like that?

[@archr610]

Ken, my only suggestion is to find an alternate for the zip ties. they tend to degrade in the sun and will eventually break. I speak from experience. would hate to see your motor and rod rack go overboard.

[@kenfett7070]

Jeff Krushinski , I do keep a bag of heavy duty zip ties in the kayak but I also remove the motor mount to go on streams and rivers so I have to replace them regularly.

[@WillSmith-po8gk]

Can you please tell me the link to make the trolling motor mount. I can't find it

[@kenfett7070]

I thought I saved it but I can't find it anywhere. If you have any questions I'd be more than happy to help you out. I'm taking it out of storage 3/30/19 and will take measurements and list them here for you. I may do a video on it this week since many people have asked about it. Thanks for watching.

[@juliuslawrence6355]

Question to add a transducer on my kayack I need your same set up exactly what’s the name of all the pieces that hold your transducer

[@kenfett7070]

Scotty transducer Mount

[@the101dad]

I have the same mount it’s a Scotty transducer mount.

[@shakira1784]

? Do you need to register it as a boat since you put a motor to it ?

[@kenfett7070]

In Pennsylvania you're supposed to but since I remove it each time the Fish and Boat officers have never said anything to me. They were even looking at it when I was putting it into a lake and they just said they liked the set up and wished me luck fishing.

[@prynceal6762]

In Florida you do. They dont play.

[@leeroy276]

Where did you find replacement hatch? Please let me know

[@kenfett7070]

Call tracker boats and they can get you a replacement hatch.

[@mrsringbean2925]

Lee Roy amazon maybe

[@fiveguysoutdoors6232]

how did you attach your trolling motor

[@kenfett7070]

The Kayak Bassin Experience I made the square box and put in four stainless eye hooks near the D rings in the kayak. I used two industrial zip ties at all four anchor points to hold it in place. I then used the existing clamps from the trolling motor and mounted it to the box.

[@rodaraus4950]

Hi, Nice setup! Do you remember by any chance where did you find the idea/instractions on how to build the frame for the trolling motor ?

[@kenfett7070]

Roda Raus It's just a simple frame made from 2x4's. The video I referred to didn't discuss how it was made. Just measure the width so it sits in the sides of the kayak and give it enough depth so you can fit a crate in it. When I did it, I didn't measure for the crate, I didn't even think about it, just got lucky. Use all stainless for the hardware and deck screws for joining the frame together. Thanks for the comment, Good luck!

[@confidential2497]

@@kenfett7070 yeah but what a. I zip typing the frame to? Did you drill holes in your kayak?!

[@kenfett7070]

@@confidential2497 No, I used the D rings mounted in the compartment behind the seat.

[@PrimitiveVsns]

What size PVC?

[@westonmavis6566]

Any update?

[@Expandacraftboats]

You should check out the video (Hobie pro angler 14 with Expandacraft Outrigger kit and 3.5 HP motor) That set up would take your craft to a whole other level.

[@kendalwong1111]

Update on how you like the higher seat?

[@aaronstiltner7505]

I have a raised set and so fast I love it. A lot easier to fish and stand up. It does throw the stability off some but after the first 5 minutes I didn't even notice. I used green fencing post for mine

[@9009matorres]

I tried my 12t with the motor in that same position, I hated it there. Had a hard time with the boat just going in circles due to it being so close to the middle of the kayak.

[@kenfett7070]

Sorry it didn't work out for you. I'll be posting a recent video of the kayak on motion with the trolling motor. I generally tighten the shaft bolt and go hands free and straight as an arrow.

[@9009matorres]

I really like the mount and frame. Battery box is genius too

[@12textiger]

Awesome

[@matthewjacobs5012]

to balance the weight of the kayak, move the battery up front and leave the motor where it is. you have a lot of weight in the back so no wonder you took on water.

[@kenfett7070]

matthew jacobs You are right. I do plan on setting up a plug in system at the front of kayak for the battery. It will also level it out better.

[@rickylove619]

matthew jacobs I agree

[@kushalphoenix1]

My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. kzbin.infoUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!

[@rcnmasterplumber]

You Made The Ascend 12t Looks Like. A $1k Project

[@kenfett7070]

Half the fun of it was adding stuff to it! When I use it on smaller creeks, it's stripped down to nothing except a cooler for Canadian "soda".

[@hawkinskenneth]

Lil jimmy norton is that you?

[@randywilson6869]

Look at Kevin Dismukes motor mounts

[@tkbilly]

Can you pleaseeeee post the dimensions for the trolling motor mount!!!!

[@lisao3041]

it would depend on the width of the kayak and such.