Effectively & Easily install a Trolling Motor to your Kayak

[@williambenitez5908]

*Great little trolling motor **enjoyable.fishing** recommend had it hooked up to my 15 foot old town canoe and it pushed it pretty good with me and my son (220 pounds each).*

[@FreeeAmerican]

Using the milk crate to mount your motor is one of the better ideas that I've seen. Having people generous enough to share their ideas with the public makes for a much better world. Thanks for the video Kayak Frank.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks for the positive feedback.

[@rickylove619]

Well said:)

[@zoffinger]

One of the cleanest kayak motor setups I've seen. Good job, Frank!

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks zoffinger. I tried to make is as simple as possible. Anyone can do this in a few weekend hours. I don't really much use the trolling motor anymore. Gotta get some exercise somehow. Besides, since lately I go offshore more than inshore, this could become an issue should I flip the kayak. Later.

[@izzyssaltlife]

im getting ready to set up my kayak with a trolling motor and have been checking out all the different ways people have come up with on youtube and by far this is the best way i've seen so far.. i do most of my yaking on inshore fishing from port isabel tx to port mansfield tx. great job !!

[@Aesop101]

8 to 10 hours only that’ll take me 8 to 10 years you’re the man bro

[@iamchaseg5247]

Most cleanest reasonable mounting and idea iv seen so far very nice.

[@KayakFrank]

I Am Chase G THANKS FOR THE COMPLIMENT. Even though I now own another kayak, I still use that one in the bay.

[@chasman4359]

Thank you for the tutorial. I have a feel free lure kayak and been wanting to power it! I live in Pa and I has to register it powered! Thanks again

[@JasmineCherie]

+Chas Man I'm a Feelfree Lure owner too. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Wishing you tight lines!

[@chasman4359]

Thank you, same to you! How do you like your kayak?

[@dougbaker1518]

That's a really smart idea man. Well built and pretty simple. Rock and Roll brother!

[@thomasmurphy5579]

Frank your idea is brilliant and i intend to use this method on my kayak. You have demonstrated everything so well and so easy to follow. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas. Regards Tom Murphy Australia

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks Tom. Appreciate the comment.

[@trailwatcher5]

BASICALLY, very good info. Thanks.

[@jamescunningham5678]

This is the best idea I have seen yet. Thank you for sharing.

[@RUDYAKAHALIBU77]

Love this idea and electric is best as weight balance is a big issue if you don't want to use stabilizers. Very clean work Frank , thumbs up buddy.

[@AbortedEvolution]

Thanks for the vid. Putting a motor on the kayak this summer and I like your idea best. Will share results when I get em.

[@KayakFrank]

Thx. Luck to you.

[@DIZZIE56]

Awesome idea, def gonna copy this. Been wanting a trolling motor for fishing but really didnt want to have to drill into my yak and then leave a giant piece of 2x4 on it during storage. Thank you thank you thank you...not just gotta get a trolling motor lol

[@KayakFrank]

You get the motor yet?

[@DIZZIE56]

Not yet, I hunt and fish so getting gear takes me a little longer since I have to split the costs between the two lol. Next on the list tho

[@bobstigler]

I weaved ratchet straps thru the skupper holes to secure the 2x4...real easy...real secure...real cheap and fast to remove. No extra drag on bottom as straps are drawn tight to kayak bottom. You'll have a motor mount for less than $15 and takes 1 min to put on or remove.

[@KayakFrank]

Good beans!

[@timothylane5654]

picture????

[@molotov90255]

Could you send me some pics? I'd appreciate it.

[@Wildirishmanbiker]

Keepin it simple, very nice!! I'm going to have to register it as well. Can't wait to get out this spring to test it out. Nice vid

[@kcarsonphoto]

best setup I've seen on in this yet!

[@KayakFrank]

Try to keep it simple I say. To this date, I still use it for inshore family fun. Offshore I use the Hobie Peddle Kayak for safety. Thanks Keith.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks for the comment. I saw your channel and I liked the videos you produce. I will look at them in more detail later this week.

[@KayakFrank]

Every kayak is different. Look for the most level area, behind you and work from that. My most level area is actually the edge all around the kayak itself. In my case, the 2x4 wood, held in place by the angle brackets is the building block of my entire project. The milk crate is cushioned in with foam padding on the bottom. This prevents slippage of the crate. Please watch the video a few times and each time you will notice certain details missed. Good luck John. Stay healthy sir.

[@gabeszone]

Awesome you gave me a lot of ideas!! I will be doing this in Japan.

[@Miami3o5King]

best video I seen so far nice work and ty

[@alexsolares2787]

Really helpful stuff brother. Thanks for the breakdown of the mount.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks Alex!

[@KayakFrank]

When we go fishing, I'll show you up close this setup. Thanks for the comment. For trolling it has helped me a lot. Got caught in some strong currents the other day, and this really made a difference. C U Soon. Tight Lines and Peace Out!

[@rickylove619]

I rigged mine exactly the same way. Great video brother.

[@megaboxing4778]

cant wait to see it on the water....see you soon Frank "WHAT" G......

[@holinwan2]

It seems simple,practical and very effective. I'm sure you did a lot of planning before you started. I have no skills to install anything like this but your video gives me inspiration! Have you looked into installing a solar battery charger? If/when you do, could you please post another video with your setup or ideas. Thanks a lot!

[@KayakFrank]

I did consider the solar, but the trickle charge wouldn't be able to get the charging done properly.

[@KayakFrank]

@Jon. I did change it for a salt water series motor. Problems were arising with the salt. Now I have a 55 thrust.Way quicker also.

[@ehdz9365]

Great video man! Tight lines

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks E Hdz!

[@KayakFrank]

@ Carlos depending on current and speed traveled, I can get between 5 to 7 hours on one 93 amp hour battery. Now I carry a 2nd battery for longer trips. Also I changed the motor to a saltwater rated 55 thrust trolling motor. Much faster, but draws more battery life. I try to paddle whenever I can for exercise. It is very easy to get lazy my friend. Thanks for the sub by the way!

[@CuDylan]

Make more videos like this regarding additions and clever ways to store things on kayaks.

[@KayakFrank]

will do thanks

[@CuDylan]

KAYAK FISHING OFFSHORE Not only does it satisfy me but by the looks of the video it seems to be one of the most popular on your channel. Assuming that means other people also enjoy seeing this kind of thing i'm sure it will increase the popularity of your channel among water sport enthusiasts.

[@lucien74]

Great video Frank. Love your work :)

[@premiersvc]

Good informative video without the(bull ...) Ive been working with elect. Trolling motors for a while now.florida heat in the summer and my health require some help moving around. Gotta go saltwater editions. Usually white as opposed to black for fresh. Used at pawn shops 120.00$$ new at walmart 300$ i built an outrigger for stability. Also for me 45lbs min. Thrust is a must. Add in 100$ for battery and box and there you go. Helps me troll the flats looking for the big schools of redfish snd such. Keep up the good videos....

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks Rick. Luck 2u!

[@Victorkayak]

Awesome idea 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@KayakFrank]

I will be putting on another one but this time will be on the water. This might help others to decide if this is for them or not. I think it works great except for the turning radius. It is wider than I expected. I have to use the paddle to help me turn sharper. Not a big problem at all, but you must keep your paddle nearby for this. Thanks for the feedback.

[@Fadeypoo]

Great job man! Gave me some good pointers and also some ideas to suit my kayak, which has a rounded shape. peace

[@KayakFrank]

Peace out.

[@boxmaniac]

Great Video, thanks Frank!

[@BeachWalker66]

Frank Great job with your design in attaching a trolling motor to your Kayak. Could you show the milk crate off of the Kayak and show us the detail that you did to make this a solid platform to mount the motor from. Thank You Frank ! I was ready to hang up Kayaking as I have Congestive Heart Failure and paddling have become too much for me. I will be watching for your response. Thanks Again. John

[@KayakFrank]

Yes those are L brackets that were used for the 2x4. I don't like drilling into my kayak either, but I didn't see any other way. I don't even have any hatches whatsoever, to avoid water leaks. If you sue the proper sized rivets, with plenty of sealant, you won't have a problem. Thanks for viewing.

[@stevengleave9241]

Showing the whole Kayak would help. What model is it? I have a Ocean Kayak Malibu two I want to set up like this. Sweet setup Frank.

[@KayakFrank]

Malibu 2XL model.

[@johnlisgaris1642]

good idea , what about balance with it on the side of the kayak

[@KayakFrank]

John Lisgaris not a problem. Keep engine close to the body of the kayak.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks for the comments. As far as the weight affecting the stern, it really doesn't affect me much. I was always fishing with a partially full 5 gallon bucket of live bait in the milkcrate. Now the important thing is "Off-Tracking". You need to adjust height and side distance properly for proper navigation. My bow weight has not been adjusted. But let me tell you something. When my fish bag gets loaded up in the front, from the days catch, it probably does ride a little better. Thank You.

[@poot111111]

Very cool with no special proprietary mounting hardware! What fasteners did you use from the angle iron to the hull? And are you still running this setup??

[@KayakFrank]

poot111111 still running Inshore at times. As far as hardware, It’s been awhile, but if I remember correctly, I used rivets. Also, where applicable I used stainless steel fasteners, purchased at Home Depot. Quite easy and it tracks okay in the water.

[@poot111111]

@@KayakFrank I have nearly the very same kayak and plan to duplicate your motor setup to the best of my abilities for this season. Your solution appears far superior than to store bought options. Thank you for your quick reply! Tight lines.

[@imillar2510]

Fantastic Frank, I might copy this idea.

[@KayakFrank]

Did you make this project work for you? Just wondering. Peace out!

[@TermiteTweeker]

Man. Here I am thinking of building all this PVC stuff for 2 kayaks. I already keep a milk crate on the back of with rod holders. I'm thinking just add the board and put the battery inside. Thanks so much.

[@KayakFrank]

Kevin Schroeder it’s pretty simple. Just don’t get to heavy. Might side track slightly but not bad.

[@johansyahjohan9591]

very nice ... simple !

[@Victorkayak]

nice setup cool man

[@KayakFrank]

Victor kayak Thanks!

[@KayakFrank]

@ Thentertainer12 It cost me &60 to register with DMV. You must have a bill of sale or a receipt from the store you bought it. All kayaks have a serial number on them. Find it and write it down, you will need this. It only costs me $14 for my yearly renewal.

[@MrSims-ky2ne]

interested to see how it tracks with the motor off to one side

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks Clive. I appreciate your comment.

[@KayakFrank]

The painting is rustoleum. No problems keeping it clean. lots of work.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks Danny for your comment. It cruised real nice today at Everglades Holiday Park right along side the airboats. They were freaking out when I went by them brother (And By The Way......So Were The Gators! LOL!) Love your videos brother. Keep up the good work and say hi to Oscar the snakehead killer! Peace Out & Tight Lines...

[@chickenguru4]

I gave up on powering my kayak. Just paddling now but looking for a future purchase of a pedal kayak

[@KayakFrank]

A peddle kayak is the way to go. I got mine also.

[@catbme]

Great Video I have been thinking about putting a trolling motor on my future beach 14 foot fishing kayak but I am hesitant to do any drilling are those metal L like brackets drilling into your yak that hold the 2X4 in place? one other question have you ever thought of making a outrigger for it? thanks for the great video I enjoyed it.

[@madlifts1]

Excellent information and thanks for pointing out about registering the kayak. What size battery do you recommend, im going to get a 36lb trolling motor.

[@lov2playtn]

Good job Frank. How did you go about painting the crate and wood. Any advice for me ? Also, how do you keep your kayak so clean ? I have a Hobie Adventure Island and it always gets stained so easily. Thanks

[@UponGiantsShoulders]

All Kayaks are vessels, not all vessels require registration. A non motorized Kayak is a Class A class Vessel and does not require registration. A motorized Kayak or Canoe under 16 feet in length is considered a Class A2 Vessel and costs ~23 dollars to register.

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks for the comment boxmaniac. If you like kayak fishing I am currently working on attaching a GoPro Camera also. Who knows, I think others might enjoy watching fish landing scenes. Peace Out!

[@joesandoval7886]

Nice video good ideals on mounting the trolling motor I have the same kayak really help a lot . So you think that if you used a bigger motor it would be over kill ,thoughts on that . Thank you .

[@NoPro1962]

You mentioned prototype you should Make (KayaK Cr8Troller Mount 2000) and prolb do pretty good Id order one. Actually screw it you put it out there I'm going to make one Thanks for the brain storm.

[@51seluj]

nice video frank. how long will that battery last on a full charge?

[@Legallyblindoutdoors]

If you have a video showing it in use I would love to watch it if you can tag me or something like that cool idea thinking about doing this on my perception outlaw 11.5

[@NoPro1962]

Brilliant do you think you could do away with the L brackets you mounted for permanent it would be nice if you could lift this whole unit out when you want to use motor or keep it out for traditional paddle .

[@KayakFrank]

Give it a shot. Could work. So long as the crate used for the battery, is strapped down properly.

[@IrishBreeze]

No, in Florida you have to have the Kayak registered once you attach a trolling motor to it even if it's temporarily attached. That is what he meant.

[@colindeavin851]

Very useful

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks!

[@bigrichfishing1]

Is that a ocean tandem XL? How does it preform for fishing? Pros and cons

[@KayakFrank]

thanks for your comment.

[@madhatter57]

Did the swivel to raise the prop come with the motor? And if not, where could I find one?Thanks. Great video!

[@KayakFrank]

The swivel is part of the motor. Comes with the motor

[@airbus1970]

Nice set up! How long does the battery last? Do you need to recharge it after each use?

[@KayakFrank]

Hey there. First thanks for the comment. The battery life is only about 3 hours on medium speed. Not much more. You must recharge every trip. Sometimes I use 2 batterries when out for longer periods. It does get heavy though. I do not use for offshore fishing only for bay fishing. I bought a Hobie peddle drive kayak and no longer am using the Ocean Kayak.

[@airbus1970]

Kayak Frank Hi there! Thanks for the reply. I bought a Minn Kota Endura C2 40 lb thrust trolling motor thru Amazon and it was delivered today here in Abu Dhabi where I live. I already made an improvised mounting on my kayak even before it arrived, and tomorrow I'm gonna take it out for a test run. My kayak is just a simple one, I like the Hobbie too but it's a little expensive for me. But hey, many thanks for the info about the battery! I just found out now that I purchased the wrong one. Ouch! I bought a car battery, when I should have bought a marine battery. But I'm gonna try to have it replaced. Thanks again Frank!

[@KayakFrank]

no breaker required. you could put an inline fuse though.

[@NoPro1962]

Was wodering do you have the crate in center does this still give you enough room too slide battery off to one side for counter weight of the motor?

[@charliemcarthur693]

Nice video! Just curious, on a full charge, how long can you use the motor while occasionally moving from spot to spot on the water?

[@briandudeathome]

I like it! Great idea =D

[@NatuRebOyMUSICK]

Love your setup, I have a FeelFree lure 11.5. I want to do the same for my trolling motor! Question is, wouldn't the crate with the weight of the battery hold the trolling motor in place without having to tie into the plastic with the rivets and angle iron? I am an Illinois native and we don't get into much fast water.

[@KayakFrank]

You need to secure it as much as possible. Thrust speed varies and it will shift on you.

[@joemaxie8439]

I spoke to the wild life and fishers and the rules are if the vessel goes more than 5 miles per hour you have to register it😁... it want go that fast unless its a fast current.

[@KayakFrank]

Joe Maxie just register it. Only a few dollars. Just get a bill of sale for the vessel and use that at the tag agency. I payed about $60 initially, then $15 Annual

[@joemaxie8439]

KAYAK FRANK is it possible to use the milk crate with a few other things just not to damage the kayak. Im trying to mount a motor without putting holes in the kayak

[@KayakFrank]

Joe Maxie I was the same way at first. The longer you own the kayak, the more you’ll do to it...like holes. You can try bungees or zip ties work great. Good luck.

[@johnpivirotto5235]

Hello Frank, Awesome video! Did you say you riveted the angle iron pieces to the kayak? Why not course threaded screws? Just curious. I plan on using your method for my kayak.

[@KayakFrank]

i did not have access to the inside< where I could put a lock washer and nut instead. I had to rivet and it came out great. I wouldn't suggest threading the plastic, unless you can make sure it won't come loose.

[@MrElvisr27]

1. Did u screw the pad eyes to the turn buckles? 2. What have you done about the counter balance? I'm sure the KYAK has leaned to the other side that's the heavier.

[@tjray4169]

thanks for the vid! I do have a simple question: Does the kayak lean or tilt one way because of the motor or is the weight still distributed fairly evenly?

[@KayakFrank]

There is some off balance. But it is bearable. Trick is to put the motor close to the kayak as possible. Thx for watching. Please subscribe. Luck to you.

[@dr.mosesgoldbergnd9200]

Trying to get the weight of the Kayak centered as the Trolling Motor severely leaves it hanging down on the right side. Even with the battery behind it - it still has a big right shift - ? Any ideas ?

[@jonrea4920]

Have you had any corrosion problems with that motor off shore not being a salt water series??

[@KayakFrank]

Yes it's great for offshore.

[@KayakFrank]

Thank You. I Am Glad This Video Will Help.

[@bobbymentel]

hey frank how did you get that turnbuckly eye around the milk crate weave? did you use a tool to bend it open then back?

[@KayakFrank]

bobbymentel exactly. 👍

[@kimdannykim]

pontoon might be necessary, it made one similar to this video and it's little tilted to one side and I had to balance it with battery.

[@KayakFrank]

A pontoon could help. Also by putting the motor close to the kayak, this helps out.

[@leegoodman8553]

Frank, Nice work! Question: Why did you not choose a 40 or a 55? Was it because of the increased weight or battery draw?

[@KayakFrank]

Lee Goodman Don’t need to overpower a kayak, or weigh down. Small one does just fine, for inshore.

[@duff233]

Is the battery case vented? Does it have to be vented?

[@HELIARCMASTER]

Did you put a breaker for the motor..

[@chickenguru4]

Great install. I did the same but lowering the motor with one hand is a challenge and lifting the motor out of the water requires me to stop and get out before getting too close to shore. I'm gonna have to try something different. I have the minn Kota 30. Traxxis raises with no buttons just lift one handed but at a cost it's $280. Any ideas

[@KayakFrank]

How is the project coming along?

[@KayakFrank]

Thanks for the comment. I just came up with a rotational device for my I-phone, which I will be filming fishing, both inshore and offshore very soon. Stay in touch for videos to follow. Thank You.

[@panhandlepilot9363]

Really nice idea for containment. Like Zoffinger, "everything in its place" lol. What about stability??? Kinda have some good weight out there huh? Do you have outriggers on that side? Also, does it track straight with NO rudder? (I don't have a rudder on mine). Thanks

[@KayakFrank]

Yes John, there is some off tracking issues with the faster speeds, but not on slower speeds. Very stable considering the extra weight and no outriggers are needed. The weight of the person along with the battery directly behind you helps with the offset.

[@panhandlepilot9363]

Hey Frank...I made a quick motor mount and just tied it to the kayak. Put the motor on and battery in back. The motor was off to my left side, just behind the seat. I took it out for a test. What I hoped wouldn't happen....happened. Not able to really steer. Had to use the paddle like a canoe oar to turn. The motor moved the yak nicely thru the water. though. So...either a rudder or attempt a rear mount motor. J

[@migoi121587]

Does the kayak run straight? Do you need a rudder of some type?

[@KayakFrank]

Yes. No problems at higher speeds

[@KayakFrank]

Kayak Frank No rudder at all

[@TheAlbyzoe]

cool vids man ! thanx for the sub!!!!

[@rickylove619]

How much does it cost to register your kayak frank?? I had no idea I had to register now because of the trolling motor.

[@lazarotheboss123]

is this kayak good for offshore fishing

[@KayakFrank]

Got my new GoPro...Will get some videos soon enough.

[@KayakFrank]

@Lachy...You need a license to fish from any type of vessel. Kayak,canoe or boats are not the ones that are licensed, it is the person operating the vessels, which are the one's that need licensing.

[@OIVIARxPRx]

Hey i have a question if you install the trolling motor on the side will it destabilize the kayak would you flip over more easy??

[@KayakFrank]

Some slight off balance but no major issues. Install engine close to kayak as much as possible. Not meant for offshore fishing. Inshore is ok though. Always wear your live vest and never ever go alone. Thx for watching and please subscribe. Peace Out!!

[@PSCBestPractice]

I have a similar set up. I take mine out in the Long Island sound. I am trying a now set up were i put the battery in the front hatch and run 6 gauge wire to trolling motor where yours is located.

[@sergiomedrano917]

Does your kayak in the water goes to the side

[@KayakFrank]

The battery keeps the kayak centered. It offsets the motor weight.

[@tgmartin68]

how much did it cost you to do this. how much do trolling motors and battery's like yours cost

[@KayakFrank]

+Todd Martin Total 300.00 cost

[@steveballard8752]

How do you balance the kayak with the motor out over the side ? Is the battery offset ?

[@KayakFrank]

The battery and your weight offsets the leaning a lot. But there is some side tracking as your kayak travels forward. Thx for watching. Please subscribe.

[@lazarotheboss123]

do you nedd a license or something to fish from this kayak or any other kayak