Kayak HELP!?

Question

I have a sit on top kayak (ocean kayak Scrambler XT) and i was wondering if about putting a skeg on it? in order to install a skeg do you have to pierce the shell of the kayak? are there any skegs that don't require you to pierce the shell of the kayak? are they hard to install and will they noticeably improve the tracking and speed of the kayak?

Answer 1

I am somewhat experienced with these type of boats.  Their plastic material is relatively difficult to work with.  However, there are specially made glues available for repairing these boats...the glues have to be heated in a glue gun or similar device.  I don't see why you couldn't attach a skeg that way, though I've never heard of anyone actually doing that.  You should be keeping a blade from your paddle in the water while you are surfing the boat, and that is essentially your 'skeg' and much more functional than one unmovably attached to the bottom of your boat!

Answer 2

A skeg is probably tricky because it is a retractable mechanism, that needs to sit inside the shell.

Consider sticking fins to it like surf kayaks have. They are usually screwed on.

However if you don't want to pierce the hull consider gluing them on. Talk to kayak repair shops to see what an appropriate glue would be.