EASY Kayak Crate - DIY Step By Step Build

The kayak crate is your SECOND most important accessory (after your PFD). This crate build is perfect for all kayak anglers and super simple and cheap, with most supplies and tools being found around your house.
Follow along this step-by-step DIY build and get ready for crushing it on the water this season.
Supplies:
Milk Crates (x2) - geni.us/C6NGA (Amazon)
Zip Ties (8”) - geni.us/J8FwR (Amazon)
Carabiner - geni.us/8b7VBWJ (Amazon)
Rod Holders (x2) - geni.us/PkcL (Amazon)
Bungee Cords (pack) - geni.us/0A9LzRs (Amazon)
Tools:
Hacksaw
Jigsaw (optional)
Rotosaw (optional)
Cutting Plier
Sandpaper (80-120 grit)
Powerdrill
Drill bits - 3/16”, 1/4” and 3/8”
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⏱️ TIMESTAMPS ⏱️
0:00 Kayak Crate DIY Build
0:53 Supplies
1:56 Tools
2:58 Crate Lid
5:43 Lid Hinge
9:28 Rod Holders
12:25 Bungee Top
19:00 Lid Closure
20:37 Crate Overview
Music:
Music by ItsWatR from Pixabay - www.Pixabay.com
Intro bumper: Song: CHENDA - Mr. Bully [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: NCS.io/MrBully
Watch: • CHENDA - Mr. Bully [NC...

[@denaturner8826]

Cut a short piece of a pool noodle, cut a slit in that, and put it over the back edge of the top tray. You can put all of your lures you might want to use instead of having to go in & out of your tackle box. You can stick the lures back in the noodle to dry so you're not putting wet lures back in the box. I love the milk crate idea! There are so many options for tool storage like a knife, scissors, and pliers. Maybe a magnetic strip. Great idea!! Thanks!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Awesome idea. Thanks for sharing!

[@davidroberts3554]

With the crate you built is sufficient and very useful. ,! Perhaps add led lights on the out side or inside lid or use one of the pole holders to attach a solar lite

[@SendItSilly]

1- that thing is begging for a solar panel lid charging system to a small USB battery bank. Then you have lights inside the box and on the yak for night fishing. Harbor freight has control switches and ammo boxes, you can make a sweet set up with LEDs. 2- I use an old soldering iron to melt that annoying little piece on the zip tie after you cut it. It flattens it out and makes the zip even stronger against backing out. 3- Anyone with an inflatable, YES this DIY is for you too! Just grab a pool noodle and put a notch/slit in two pieces equal to the length of the side of your crate and zip tie them into place. Cut a piece for any other area of the crate that touches the yak and repeat. Use bungees to secure it to the eyelets on the back of your yak. great vid! 🎣

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Awesome suggestions! Thanks for watching 🙏🏽

[@cootalove7246]

To Think I Was About To Buy The “Yak-Attack” For My Kayak 😂 Thanks! Awesome Video

[@joshclevenger5675]

mine is in construction. just got my first kayak and thought it would be a good add on thanks for the idea

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Congrats man!! 🙌🏽

[@NineteenEighty8]

Just subscribed, joined the fb group, and made my own kayak crate! Thanks brotha'. The lid idea was genius.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽 appreciate you bro!

[@joeborowy5794]

Very well made kayak with some really nice features. A value for what you get. The grandson has already caught some nice fish from it.

[@ColeClayton140]

Just tried this! I’m 15 and got into kayaking and built this to add to my first kayak!(Yellowfin 100). If I can do it, y’all can build it too😂 Thanks for this vid! Great idea

[@Voxguitarsrock]

I modified my crate to mount my trolling motor. Good video . Thanks. Subbed

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Appreciate you!

[@edwatral9245]

Awesome build it being Saturday today I'm going to build one thanks again

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks Ed! Let me know how it turns out!

[@albanianfishingguy8981]

This video is SUPER clutch! You made it look super easy, will definitely be doing this for my new kayak!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Appreciate it brother. Good luck on the build!

[@bigfinfishing770]

Just finished my kayak crate using your design. Super simple to build and gets the job done.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@laserengraver8383]

Super cool ! I'm going to make one. Just bought my first Kayak. Love your videos.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Awesome man! Enjoy the process! Appreciate you!

[@kielhouser1561]

Great video bro!! Love mine. Definitely gets the job done when you're on the water.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks bro! Agreed! Gotta stay organized for sure!

[@robertfreyer5748]

This has to be the easiest build video I've seen. I usually over simplify other's videos, start a project then never finish it. After watching this I realized how easy it could be. I should be able to have my crate built this after noon.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks Robert! I’m glad it was helpful. Definitely was aiming for simple because I’m the same way. Appreciate you! 💪🏽

[@lousadventures2111]

Well done thank you so much. Guest I'll be looking for four crates lol. Can't' forget the wife's kayak too. Also great to carry the most important thing guys/gals Your first aid kit.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Appreciate you bro! Thanks for watching!

[@MyRivera23]

Great job👍👍👍👍👍🙌

[@glennrobbins2372]

I use a rectangular crate on my Lifetime Tamarack kayak. It holds all the boxes from my tackle bag. I also installed a plastic cereal container I got from Wal-Mart, it holds my miscellaneous stuff like first aid kit, towel, bungee cords for my cart, Off and sunscreen. I also have a piece of pvc pipe to hold my anchor. On the top I put a length of bungee cord in an M shape to hold stuff in the top. I also used pad eyes front and back close to the bottom and custom made bungee cords to anchor the crate to my kayak. I also had to install wood blocks for feet so that it clears the rear storage hatch, which I don't use.

[@peterfagley772]

I'm running to the shop and make that unit right now, you're amazing! Thank you!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Hey Peter! Glad it was helpful man! Thanks for watching!

[@qchirac]

I was trying to pick up some milk crate from shop for free. Found one but it has some ownership clamations. Googled a little, it is not legal to pick the crates from shop for free. They are not garbage actually. I just left the crates back to the shops. There are crates selling on line. Six or seven dollars. Not bad.

[@edwardellis7611]

Love your content. Just bought my first kayak been a long time angler and have owned traditional boats in the past. Really looking forward to exploring the local smaller waters where I live. I bought a yak crate I plan to put some rod holders on it. I keep my tackle and other gear in a SOG backpack which also has a water bladder that fits perfectly in the crate. I'm not crazy about taking tons of lures when I fish as I generally use jigs, plastics, and a handful of crankbaits. I like your build. For now I'm going use mine with some rod holders with bungees across the top and see where I need to improve it. Thanks for your content I've found it entertaining and helpful.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching Edward! Congrats on the first kayak. Enjoy the journey. It’s a fun one!

[@miriammigliacci9427]

Brilliant! I’m going to do this!! Gotta find the crates!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

You’ll love it! Appreciate you watching!

[@paulpowell9579]

Another great vid Jay. Gave me some good ideas

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks Paul. Glad it was helpful! I’ve been using my crate for 2 seasons and it’s held up extremely well.

[@steinerp]

What I didnt know (but got luck with) is milk crates come in 2 different sizes. The standard square and a rectanglar size. The rectanglar size holds most tackle boxes whereas the square only holds some

[@jchuey3]

I added a shoulder carrying strap from a gym bag to mine. Works awesome!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Love that idea!

[@allkindsofoutdooractivities]

Really nice build! I saw Zoffinger do something similar. He would be proud!

[@irenewoolsey926]

One word slick .😊

[@stumpspurchasing6340]

Solid video bro! Building one now lol, already buying a few things I’ll need for it 👊🏻😎😎 God bless you brother!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Awesome bro! Good luck! Appreciate you

[@ChrisMiller-bu8yo]

You can also use a lighter or such to melt the cable tie tails might be easier too. Cool project thanks for sharing!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great idea. Thanks for watching and sharing brother!

[@TheOutdoorConquest]

Great video Jay

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks brother! One of my favorite hats for sure 💪🏼

[@1pearldrums]

Great video 😊

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching my friend!

[@federicolicomijares]

Love the content!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@kerrypitt9789]

Hey Bd! Big Hello from 🇨🇦! Ive owned most types of fishing boats. Tournament, aluminium, wooden, now in my 65th year i have one of those inflatable pontoon boats. Recently I experienced kidney failure for a resason i never imagined. Im not a drinker so it came as a surprise. After nearly dying ive been in recovery. So what do you do when you can only sit and watch TV? You go to KZbin because I love to learn. While there i found kayaking. I started looking and i got hooked. I found Kristine Fischer and Greg Blanchard and somewhere in there i found you. Im enjoying your work very much and you have given me some ideas. There is a lot ofv kakay info on here. I really like comparison work as i look around. Finding fishing kayaks in Canada requires persistence. So thank you for caring enough to share your ideas!

[@teetimeaz]

I place my rod holders at 45 degrees and stagger some to avoid reel to reel interaction. Now i have almost 0 issues casting and hitting my rods behind me. I also move my crate as far forward to my seat for easy reach.

[@EssentialOutdoors]

Good build brother.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks bro! Thanks for watching! 💪🏼

[@kennethshelton9976]

Nice build. Me personally I would of drilled holes for top bungees cord, then use the hooks on bungee to go into holes for easy build. You can bind the metal hooks if needed so not to come out. Love your post Bearded Brother. I am looking into getting my own Kayak and use your information to get me started. Only will be doing river & lake fishing and just enjoying the time on water . Thanks God Bless Everyone 🙏🏻❤️😇🇺🇸

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Appreciate it brother! Great feedback. Thanks for watching!

[@joespafford6499]

Dude that's fire, love it I'll definitely use that versus the 3 to $400 yak packs and stuff. I love content like that DIY or little hacks that get you by until you can afford what you need. I appreciate it. And I just joined the Facebook group so I look forward to that

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Welcome bro! Appreciate you!

[@jelly_fishing]

Nice video and build

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@richdunn9774]

Use a lighter on the clipped zip tie ends to melt them smooth. I use a motorcycle net from harbor freight on the top of my crate but I also haven’t put a lid on it yet.

[@scottcarver6113]

Was going to suggest the same thing! 👍🏼

[@errolhook3975]

You can burn the ends of the zip ties instead of using sand paper. Great video.

[@tomballard8877]

You could also use a stainless steel ring to hold the top bungees. Drill holes in each corner like you did but instead of threading ,loop the cords through the ring and don’t cut the hooks. This way you can change out the cords to fit your needs for the top. More stuff ,longer cords. Lee’s stuff ,shorter cords. I did this to a tote in my power boat and it worked great. You could buy one but just as easy to make it. It was called an octopus bungee.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great idea Tom. I like the idea of switching out the cords when necessary. Thanks for watching!

[@RamonMorales-kq3yn]

Love it Man, so proud of you. You need to take me with you one of this days 😎😅👊🏼🙏

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks bro! Let’s go this summer!

[@tanioraaura1274]

I like the height,width & breadth of the black plastic milk crate. Did you use two crates. The top is the base of the crate,and you have cut it to the plastic shape ( pattern). I like it. i would put a cargo net on mine with a bungy around the edge and eye domes on the side of the crate, Thank you for recycling ♻️ Thanks for the idea 💡

[@dieselduane708]

Been waiting for this video

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Appreciate the support Duane! 💪🏼

[@dieselduane708]

@@BeardedDadFishing not sure I can be part of the group I had to shave my beard for work lol hahhahanha

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@dieselduane708 😂 you’re bearded at heart!

[@TheOutdoorConquest]

That hat !!! 🤘🏼🤘🏼

[@josezendejas136]

Looks good to me Brother🤙🤙

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks brother!

[@Agile47509chicken]

I have scupper holes in the area where I keep my crate, and I was getting sick of stuff getting wet. So I used a pool noodle, sliced in half length-wise, and zip tied two lengths along the bottom of the crate. It gives me that extra inch or so to keep stuff dry.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Good tip! Thanks for sharing 👌🏽

[@34clint1]

Use a nail clippers to cut the tails of the zip ties off clean and rounded.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Good tip! Thanks for sharing!

[@TheOutdoorConquest]

Thanks for the shoutout brother!!!

[@Highlife1409]

Am a part of the group just joined I love it

[@raydiaz140]

Only thing I would do different would be to make 2- v shapes with the cords on top. I think it would be more secure for smaller items. For example bags of soft plastic lures, beef Jerry etc.

[@SkunkMasterFishing]

That's awesome even for fishing on the bank. I don't own a kayak but I would absolutely make this!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed! I’ve used it for bank fishing as well. Thanks for watching!

[@SkunkMasterFishing]

@@BeardedDadFishing Yeah bro, I've been watching your vids and it's making me feel like taking that jump into a kayak

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@SkunkMasterFishing appreciate you brother. But seriously, you won’t regret it if you do. It’s a rabbit hole I’m so thankful I jumped into.

[@SkunkMasterFishing]

@@BeardedDadFishing Oh I am sure! Yeah we shall see. Thanks man aooreciate the info and Dad jokes. You give me some ammunition for my kids lol.

[@peterheinrichs7634]

For the lid one could opt for parallel bungees 90° to the hinge. This way everything on the lid couldn't fall off when lifted. But, you can also stuff oversized things onto the lid from the side? For the lid closure: that's the best option I've seen so far!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed! Thanks for sharing!

[@markoda2120]

Great vid. If you only cut one end of the bungie (for the top), and slide both hooks off, you would only have to tie one knot.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

😂😂😂 10000% correct. I did not think that far ahead. Thanks for sharing and watching man!

[@micheldemers9837]

You can burn the tye with a little butane torch

[@cristianocucumo4361]

Would be cool idea to utilize the top and make a cutting board for bait.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great idea!

[@D_A_D_]

You could glue some magnetic sheet into the top of the lid so that it doubles as a magnetic tray for holding baits. How do you recommend securing it in your boat so that if I flip it doesn't go to the bottom of the lake with a thousand dollars worth of tackle?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great idea on the magnetic sheet. I have a magnetic lure dish I keep on my tail for that purpose. You can use tie down clips that go on your rear rails (from YakAttack) and hold it down with a strap. Or bungees which is what I do. Thanks for watching Cory!

[@qchirac]

I would simplify it a little. Rather than make a nice lid, I would apply a bungee net over the crate. Not as ideal, but easier for me.😅

[@outdooropaholger9998]

I'd skip the karabiner for the lid closure and use a knob from furniture instead. It's easier to just flip the loop over a knob than fiddle around with a karabiner. I screwed seatbelt-material on, to make a Hinge and a carrystrap. Melt the ends of that material with a lighter. I've build my crate out of an old foam isolated camping gaz cooler box, becausa a) even with load it swims in case of a flipover b) it keeps the things inside from getting wet and infected with salt c) had it and it fitted perfectly in the back of my pro Angler d) keeps my beverages cold during hot days Would also make a good livewell, seat, rescue device,...

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great feedback! Love the furniture knob idea. The foam cooler is definitely different. Would love to see that. Thanks for watching!

[@rvfishingyet]

Solid build. Do you add anything to secure it to your yak? Thanks for the video!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great question. I do not. My autopilot and PDL both have bungees that keep it tight towards the front of the rest tank well. YakAttack does sell vertical tie downs that would work if you tracks along the rear of the yak. Thanks for watching!

[@flslowblues]

Would like to see the way you recommend connecting it to kayak

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Bungees is the easiest way to secure it.

[@josephkenney5877]

Anymore sweatshirts ? Checked the link tree shop but didn’t see any

[@basshead8555]

Good build. I was going to do a build like this but after I bought everything I was approaching $50. My crate sits just above my scooper holes. I didn’t want wet gear and wanted a smooth hinged lid. Building this does save money but there are tradeoffs. Things like hinge smoothness and overall cost to quality. This build just wasn’t for me but I can see where it would be useful for some. I ended up buying a a Yakattack blackpak. I figured I was going to end up with one at some point so I applied the “buy once cry once” school of thought. Cool video nonetheless.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great feedback. Definitely some trade offs and price can add up. After using my crate for two full seasons, I still find it very useful and doesn’t lack much. Never had to replace my zip ties. That said, I’m considering a 16x16 blackpak pro myself. Definitely has that polished look and the buckles and rod holders are more refined. Thanks for watching bro 🤙🏽

[@basshead8555]

@@BeardedDadFishing I ended with the 13 x 13 to closely match the size of a milk crate. I have a 106 and use a wilderness systems cart that I throw in the back area. Add a cooler, crate, cart, etc. space is starting to get limited. I know the 13x16 is the more popular size. My theory is if I have more space so will probably carry more (unnecessary) items. I look forward to your video when you get your blackpak.

[@qchirac]

I would simplify it a little. Rather than make a nice lid, I would apply a bungee net over the crate. Not as ideal, but easier for me.😅

[@randymccartney7249]

I made mine with 3 milk crates so I did t have to use a bungee cord on the top

[@willhoward9865]

still didn't have enough to criss/cross?

[@pietro-gh4tz]

Nice video, congratulations. May I know where to find these plastic boxes? in Italy they are not found :-( Thanks!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching my friend! They can be found at ice cream shops or a lot of smaller stores. If you have an office equipment store such as a Staples or Office Depot, you could probably find some there also. Good luck!

[@pietro-gh4tz]

@@BeardedDadFishing Thank's my friend! I will check the shops you mentioned.

[@dustinneas5335]

I just made this crate but how exactly do you secure it in your kayak?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Secure it with the tank well bungees usually. I’ll be coming up with a better way here soon though.

[@chickenliquor]

If you hit the sanded edge with a heat gun for a few seconds you'll get a smooth shiny finish FAST

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great tip! Might just have to do that! Thanks Ben!

[@stephenrobertson2397]

Would hinges be better than zip ties on lid?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching! Great question. Zip ties have worked great for me so far. More than 2 years with no issues. Hinges may work as well but I don’t see the need in my case.

[@gman4674]

any reason you didn't use he screws that came with the rod holders?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I just preferred zip tying it since I can remove and adjust if needed.

[@scottcarver6113]

Instead of bungee cords, they make paracord that is expandable like bungees and it comes in a 25foot roll. Nice build though!

[@InfernoT1mmy]

Could you just flip the top part or leave some extra on from the second milk crate for some extra height I don’t see why you couldn’t?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Yes sir! No reason you couldn’t

[@trimmin420]

Hello just found your channel and i wanted to ask you what your favorite kayak is?..... Like you i am a larger dude (6'1" 290 lbs)

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching! My favorite is the old town sportsman line. Lots of great options there!

[@keftonbrown1460]

I will build this if i can find the crates functional and way cheaper than yak attack

[@ndsoc26]

Flip the lid over and you can fit 3700 trays!!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Wild!!!! That’s going to be my next change! Thanks for sharing Matt!

[@kuzinit2374]

FYI , if a cop wants to be a prick, he can arrest you for stealing milk crates ,