How to Install a YakGear Kayak Anchor Trolley

**Hardware Change for 2016 - The kit now comes with 6 stainless self-tapping screws (2 for the cleat and 4 for the pad eyes) as a replacement to the rivets for the pad eyes. For installation of the pad eyes, simply use technique above with the self-tapping screws.**
Bill Bragman, President, YakGear, Inc., goes through the entire process of installing YakGear's Deluxe Anchor Trolley. Anchor Trolleys provide paddlers the ability to control the position of their kayak or canoe in waters with currents or when experiencing windy conditions. For more information about the Anchor Trolley, visit: www.yakgear.com

[@verynearlypure]

This is a great professional and thorough explanation with no bloat or nonsense filler! I hope this message finds you well and thank you for providing such useful info and products!

[@scuba6797]

Thanks for the clear explanation of how to use the anchor Trolley. I didn't really realize how useful it was. I'll probably reinstall one soon.

[@LennyC621]

thanks for posting this. I just installed my anchor trolley and this video made it super easy. thanks!

[@christophertonns1936]

I just installed another @yakgear #yakgear anchor trolley on my 2nd kayak. This video should be the template for "how to install your ABC or 123" anything. The enclosed pulley is superior to other products I evaluated. Great product, great video. No fluff, no filler, no upbeat rock music, not needed, just good info.

[@quintili1]

This video is awesome, it made the install super easy for me. Can't wait to try it out next weekend.

[@robertsauer3049]

This video is really well done. If you follow the directions everything works perfectly. The anchor trolley was easy to install and works very well.

[@matthewwalker2314]

Thanks for the video! I watched this and used all your info for my installation. Very clear and concise.

[@chriswilke]

Just bought mine today and going to install tomorrow. Thank you for the video!

[@brookmiller1986]

Thanks so much for this video! This shows the details I need to set up my anchor trolley the right way.

[@robertwilshire3741]

Thanks so much for this awesome instructional video! Best one i've seen yet and it will be the one i follow when i install my anchor trolley this weekend!

[@Yakgearinc]

Thanks Robert!

[@karenlogan7462]

excellent video. used it to install my anchor trolley and made it super easy. Only trouble i had was clamping the hog clamps.

[@KennyP56]

Great tutorial! Will install my anchor trolley kit tomorrow.

[@damieng4470]

Nicely done video. I feel confident to do this by myself after watching.

[@oscarsifuentes6427]

Nice Installation Bill! Thanks for all the tips!

[@wyogoat]

Great product and great video. I just got my Jackson Cuda 14 set-up in about the time it took to watch the video.

[@olebiker]

Thanks for posting this. I went to Academy and got it this morning and had it installed on my new Native Slayer in just a few minutes.

[@kevinmast6119]

Thanks Bill. That was really informative!

[@ZBorGaming]

Just got mine in the mail today. Thanks for the video. Very informative. I'm ready to install it now!!

[@Yakgearinc]

SWEET!

[@HIMEESE]

Seeing the secondary cleats etc. i am glad i read the comments below. Knowing it was for show. As long as the cleat is within reach, is it ok to mount it where ever you want? Great video!!! Very easy step by step instructions and love the set up. Thank you!

[@jonathankohl6264]

Great instructional video.

[@laquishamoore555]

thanks a bunch, loved it!!

[@aaronkuecker9395]

This video is the reason I bought from you and not another brand

[@hunterfarris6085]

Thanks for the info!

[@corax2012]

The Old Town Predator series have molded handle fore and aft ... I just use a rope looped through the holes, works fine. One rope, one steel hoop, and a zig zag cleat, and an anchor. I used 3/8 inch poly rope because I don't like super thin material if I'm fishing in a 25 knot wind.

[@jimrouth2998]

FYI The second zig zag cleat above the trolley lines (as seen in video) is the actual anchor line cleat. You run your anchor line from this cleat through the anchor trolley triangle and out to anchor. You never ever directly tie your anchor line to the triangle. Not safe in heavy current as well as you have no control over length of anchor line out in this configuration.

[@MTips18]

Stop posting stuff that is going to get someone killed. No way to release quick, I don't know what you consider heavy current, but trying to anchor in conditions like that can over turn you faster then you would believe.

[@Scorp006]

From what I've read and understand, Jim is correct. No way to quickly unhook in a bad situation.

[@404_fishing]

I second Jim, never tie to the triangle you run your anchor line through the triangle and wrap around the cleat. If something bad happens and you get snagged you undo the anchor line from the cleat and float away and retrieve anchor

[@UncleBogator]

Instead of silicone, could you use "marine sealant" as a substitute?

[@brookskelty3832]

Got the exact same kit. Didn’t come with screws and lock nuts nor did it come with tri grip rivets, wish I knew that instead of buying a rivet gun kit based off of this video. Still a helpful video and seemingly nice anchor trolley, just wish it came with what I expected from this video.

[@Manuel_Z_Kayaks]

Your "Fisherman's Knot" is actually called "Improved Cinch Knot in case anyone wants to google it". The actual "Fisherman's knot" is where you take the 2 ends of the rope and tie them to each other which is actually how I tie my anchor trolley and put my loop between the 2 knots after pulling them apart to get just the right tension. Imagine grabbing each wrist with the other hand, that's what the fisherman's knot looks like. I do like your system especially the 2 slanted pad eyes. those will really clean up and guide the line over weird curves in the boat/kayak. And THANK YOU for adding the HOW TO USE the Anchor Trolley. 90% of the how to videos do not show how to use it. There are several different ways but yours is the most obvious use.

[@iwantosavemoney]

what is the improved part of that knot?

[@Manuel_Z_Kayaks]

There is a Cinch knot and an Improved Cinch. The "Improved" is where you go back through the loop.

[@iwantosavemoney]

+phartattack all over it good stuff

[@scottcraven2801]

It's actually improved clinch knot, not "cinch".

[@Manuel_Z_Kayaks]

Seriously? Cinch/Clinch same thing... Some people. I pointed that out simply so people can find the correct knot.

[@moretackle1]

Nice instructional video but I am concerned that there is no emergency quick release.

[@comcast515]

Hi, just had a question I recently purchased the Yak Gear Anchor Trolley kit and it says to use silicone i'm just tryng to find out what is a good brand to use as I don't want it to affect the kayak in any way

[@36742650885]

since i used the rivets on the pad eyes i used the nut and bolts on the zig zag cleat, and had inside access at that point, self tapping screws into plastic is kind of a weak fastening method in my opinion, i also added a washer

[@randomeverything3023]

Would you be able to use the rivets to install the zigzag cleat? or are the screws better?

[@timpiepho2181]

I spent over 1.5 hrs trying to get to the bottom of the fact that the website ACK (Austin Canoe & Kayak) video of installing this did NOT have this important "hardware change" notice. It wasn't until I clicked on the UTUBE video from the ACK site that I saw that lo and behold there was a "hardware change" and I didn't need to worry about a rivet gun or rivets. :(

[@Caughtitoutdoors]

Best kit out there. I have a 10' Sundolphin ss fishing kayak, so size and weight is a major issue. this kit is ultralight!!!

[@tomt.5225]

Thanks for the video. Should I wet the line before attempting to install it?

[@Yakgearinc]

Thomas Taccetta Either way! Wetting it can prevent future shrinking after it is installed!

[@TubeYou7]

Why didn't my kit come with rivets?? I don't have inside access and would like to be able to use the kit I bought.

[@dmger14]

Great video. Is it better to use the self tapping screws for the pad eyes or buying and using rivets?

[@dmger14]

FYI - I haven't had any problems with the self tapping screws that come with the anchor trolley.

[@jasonmilmoe4893]

Q: what is the benefit of angling the pad eyes as opposed to just straight up & down?

[@metalNmetal93]

Has anyone tried using screw anchors for the self tappers instead of a revit and did it work?

[@jeffreyhodge3088]

Great video. Is it beneficial to put an Anchor Trolley on each side of the Kayak?

[@Yakgearinc]

Hi Jeffrey, Thank you for the kind words. It is really up to your preference on whether or not you want a trolley on both sides but it definitely couldn't hurt! We have a lot of customers with trolleys on both sides of their kayak and they love the convenience of it.

[@Jackofalltrades83]

What size are the rivets? I know you say they came standard in your kit, but mine didn’t have those and I’d like to install them into my kayak because I have no access to the inside of it for screws. Thanks!

[@Finfanpete]

How long should the anchor line itself be?

[@661godislove7]

What is a good size anchor for the lake

[@tomcollier2406]

Can you use well nuts for your pad I

[@stevetautog880]

Sir great teaching vid one question I do not see where all the chord is stored do you have 50 100 how many feet of chord and again where is it located thank you

[@gpecaut1]

Since I only anchor in shallow water, I have 50' of parachute cord for my anchor rhode. I use a 1.5 lb grapple anchor. The anchor and line store in a bag I keep in the kayak. I made my own anchor system for $3 using padeyes and a small standard cleat.

[@gleerank]

Please explain why you recommend installing the rollers 12 inches from the bow and stern. Why not 2 or 3 inches?

[@wmpx34]

My guess is that would create too much curve in the lines and make them slip down or up. Also, there really isn't much reason to put the anchor point 2 inches from the bow instead of 12 inches...in both spots, you are basically going to be facing the wind

[@erikolson8667]

How do you know how long to leave the anchor line? Sometimes i anchor in 4 feet in freshwater, sometimes 30 feet in saltwater.

[@gpecaut1]

For short term anchoring at least three times the depth. For long term, at least 7 times the depth. The amount of line (scope) gets longer, the anchor's holding power goes up. Adding several feet of chain to the anchor will improve holding power too, allowing shorter anchor scope for the same holding power. In a current, or wind a longer scope may be needed to prevent the anchor from dragging. Adding a 2 lb or heavier weight 2-3' up the Rhode (anchor line) will increase the anchor's holding power too.

[@johnnyblevins4196]

Does the surface where you mount the pulleys have to be completely flat? I have a Tarpon 100 it is rounded on most of it's surface's..

[@Yakgearinc]

Johnny, the surface does not have to perfectly flat but the flatter the better. Think about it this way: the pulleys are pretty small. On the Tarpon 100 it looks quite rounded but you can find 2 inches of relatively flat surface area for installation. Email [e-mail] if you want to get into some rigging talks about how to get your Tarpon 100 set up.

[@johnwalton5064]

Curious as to why the instructions say 3" down from the deck and you are going only down around an inch?

[@flosiin]

I had the same thought

[@frankhernandez9624]

did u criss cross the anchor line

[@Josef_R]

Got your Harken Pulley Kit from Austin Kayaks. The screws aren't long enough to engage the wellnuts. How is this supposed to work?

[@tomcollier2406]

If you are right handed I like it on the right sied cause I cast to the left . For what its worth heck iam trying to figure out where to put the pad eyes seams like the would stop the triangle. GODs Love good luck

[@hunterfarris6085]

Wouldn't the anchor line be pulling on the pulleys in strong winds and what if you don't want all your anchor line out ? Just wondering thanks.

[@Yakgearinc]

Hey Hunter. The pulleys do take the force of the wind. However, if installed properly they will hold up no problem. Shoot us an email at [e-mail] if you have any questions.

[@Fj4LiFe23]

I use a dive reel with a float and a clip on it to the trolley ring. so you let out the desired amount of line clip it to the trolley then send it to the position you want... also if i need to get off the anchor whether its for a large fish or an emergency I just unclip it from the trolley and the float keeps up the reel so that I can go back and pick it up.

[@johngraff9085]

Bill, do I see another double wheel pulley installed just forward of the "heritage" decal? Is that an additional part you've added as part of the anchor trolley system? Also just below the seat is there another zig-zag cleat installed? Thanks

[@Yakgearinc]

Hey John! That kayak is a show kayak for many of our products. So, some of the products are placed in strange areas just for show. There is a secondary Zig Zag Cleat mounted near the seat. There are also multiple drain plugs and cleats installed near the bow. I think that is what you are seeing. Don't worry about those in the installation of your trolley!

[@berniesbend]

So what is best means of attachment well nuts, self tapping screws or rivets? Has anyone actually had the self tapping screws tear out while anchored? I purchased the standard leverlok anchor trolley and won't use the self tapping screws if that's not the best means of attaching this hardware.

[@gpecaut1]

The screws should work, but do use a water proof adhesive too. I like 5200. Bolts with washers and self locking (nylock) nuts are my favorite. But can only be used if you can reach the nuts to put them on.

[@smitz001]

Lemme get this straight. I’m supposed to spend any where between 500 and 2000 dollars for a decent fishing kayak. Then get it home and immediately start drilling into the hull. 😂😂

[@randyluna551]

If your mechanically inclined....Yes :)

[@mastocytoma1]

Modifications are the fun part!!

[@rollindougherty7198]

question when putting line threw pulley does it go from top down on both ends?

[@Yakgearinc]

Technically, you could do it either way but that is the way we usually do it.

[@The1985zFinest]

how do you tie off your anchor rope to the anchor tether? I have one of your kits on they way.

[@Dick_DastardlyX]

Never tie it to the anchor tether!! Use a carribeaner. A large wave or fish could tip you over, so you need to be able to disconnect quickly. Keep a float on the end of your anchor line so you can pick it up easily

[@kevinmills8212]

with this setup do you only get to anchor at one depth I may not understand?

[@Ntmoffi]

You should have the anchor line secured on the boat somewhere. The line should run through that triangle. You can get the right depth for your anchor and put the line in a zig zag cleat. Then set up your trolley for the correct anchor position and have it secured in a separate smaller cleat (like in the video). He actually has 2 cleats positioned on the side of the Yak if you look closely.

[@chuckmatses6803]

Nice, but I never hear any comments as to what side of the kayak is the more beneficial to install the system . Thanks.

[@michaelmyers3280]

whichever side is more convenient for you

[@wmpx34]

I chose to put it opposite of my main hand (right), so it's on the left. The rod holder in front of me is on the right side. That way if I hook a fish and need to anchor suddenly, I can grab my anchor pole with left hand, secure it in the bottom, then adjust the anchor point if necessary, all with just my left hand.

[@dabigpitt]

Mines didn't come with the rivets went to hardware store but I'm not sure what length I need. Edit: I used long 3/8 tri grip rivets

[@timpiepho2181]

Mike, I almost went out and bought a rivet gun and rivets until I saw the "hardware change" effective 2016 version and newer...

[@EmmaNickRi]

Perhaps a dumb question here, but the kit comes with 30' of rope. Since I don't need all 30' for the trolley system, I guess I should cut the rope for only the amount I need shown in this video and use the rest as my anchor rope?

[@Yakgearinc]

Correct. We recommend getting it all set up then cutting off the excess. This gives you a margin for error. Also, be aware that the rope sometimes shrinks after its first contact with water. Shoot us an email at [e-mail] if you have any questions.

[@alhomicz5644]

Bought one of theses today and installed it. It no longer comes with rivets, just the self-tapping screws.

[@michaelrhodes9614]

Al Homicz how do the screws go need add something to my kayak and not sure if screws or rivots will be better No internal access Cheers

[@visualkeirockstar]

I already drilled it over the seam. Is that bad?

[@gpecaut1]

Just add a water proof adhesive to help glue those suckers in place. I like 5200. That should help keep from splitting the seam too.

[@firepup35]

My kit didn't come with the rivets?

[@kurttaylor5023]

This is wrong, do not tie your anchor off like this. Anchor line runs thru the triangle to the larger zig zag cleat he is not using. If you tie off like he's doing, it's gonna rip everything off the side of the boat.

[@AJ-qw8nw]

How many pounds off for the ankler

[@sandytwigflies]

hey any chance these are available in Australia?

[@one_final_cast6161]

Just got mine from freak sports mate.

[@Detroit3Pistons]

What does wrapping the line around the zig zag cleat do?

[@nickolasbilleau3598]

prevents the anchor line position on the kayak from slipping due to any chop.

[@gpecaut1]

It holds the line. I prefer a standard cleat myself. Some like clam cleats.

[@treymurphy6398]

My kit didn't come with rivets :(

[@weedsnager]

Just purchased the deluxe anchor trolley. No rivets in the package

[@Yakgearinc]

Hi weedsnager, we changed the hardware in the kit in 2016 to contain only tapping screws as opposed to rivets. The video has a popup mentioning this and giving instructions for the install with the tapping screws. Through our research we found out that rivets were not necessary in this install and the tapping screws would more than suffice. I apologize for any inconvenience and please let us know if we can help answer any questions.

[@iwantosavemoney]

am no expert in these by no means but it looks to me like this was done up side down. the way this one was installed the trolley line will alway rub the line below it. if the trolley line is on the bottom it can never touch the other line. but that is is just my common sence way of thinking.

[@taylorparrish7638]

iwantosavemoney I was thinking that too.

[@jameswest9792]

Actually, he threaded the trolley line just like you were hoping / referencing. The confusing item is that he puts the lower line (with the triangle) through the zig zag a couple of times instead of putting the upper trolley line in the zig zag. He switches at the end and does zig zag the upper line into the cleat.

[@Dick_DastardlyX]

I was also thinking the same thing, but I think it has something to do with the arch of the yak and how taught the line is. Upper line should be the one to lock.

[@proximap2151]

Damn I just used silicone on the well nuts..

[@lynperk]

how store items inside your kayak!

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

I think I'd used a cam cleat instead of the zig-zag cleat.

[@jonathanyang1334]

HOW DO I GET THE ANCHOR OUT IF IT IS STUCK

[@Yakgearinc]

Jonathan, what do you mean? We usually just pull our anchor line up. Don't use the trolley to retrieve the anchor. The trolley is just for positioning. When you want to retrieve your anchor, you grab the actual anchor line.

[@Yakgearinc]

Shoot us an email at [e-mail] if you have any questions.

[@dannybaker4641]

Jonathan Yang Paddle backwards and then pull your anchor loose.I had that happen once.

[@willie9397]

get some scuba gear

[@OfficialFedHater]

Did you get your anchor unstuck or is your kayak still in the same place it was six years ago?

[@jesusortiz2873]

Muy practico..

[@Tuneswapping]

No rivets are included with the kit.

[@timpiepho2181]

Correct, the newer improved version doesn't use rivets like the video shows, they come with water sealing screws...would have been nice if YAK could mention that in the actual video

[@snakeclips]

just thought id get on here and warn people that the kit does not come standard with the rivets or the screws and lock nuts so if you dont want to attach it with screws that like to pull out and leave a jagged hole in yer boat you might wanna get a pack of the waterproof rivets or get to yer local hardware store for the screws and lock nuts. happy trails!

[@AJ-qw8nw]

Excuse me how many pounds

[@emmanuelcachia5389]

like

[@davidhefner5668]

It will work loose.

[@JM-rp9qf]

Sweet jewelry! lol

[@mrmalone28]

Is that Mr. Ferguson in your picture?

[@acutt5512]

A thumb ring...

[@danielayris3623]

Andrew Cutt I was told never trust anyone with a pinky or thumb ring... since that day, I can confirm it was good advice.

[@HOOKEMINTHEMOUTHKAYAKFISHING]

like andHOOKEM IN THE MOUTH!

[@AyeJayeLovernVermont]

But this install is WRONG 🤷‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@ptrgriffin75]

right? i noticed that the trolley line is on the bottom on one side and on the top on the other and he said the trolley line goes on top. or was it something else cause i was gonna install mine and this was the 2nd video i saw and it threw me off.

[@iwantosavemoney]

after watching a few more videos I think this guy making instructional videos. needs to watch a few instructional videos on how to install anchor trolley properly. but you never know he may have the old instructions and could not read them.

[@JosesitoRam]

Carabiner > Caribener lol you made yourself look silly mate, and not just with you thumb ring

[@w.w.oklahoma6010]

What's with the gay thumb ring? What happened to real men? Do you even kayak? Damn!!!