NorCal Kayak Anglers

Kayak Zone => Kayaks => Stealth => Topic started by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:37:39 PM

Title: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:37:39 PM
Every kayak requires a bit of customization, and thats half the fun of getting one. Our norcal waters are cold and demanding, and after putting some miles on the boat there are a few modifications that are necassary to accommodate these conditions.  Heres a couple things Ive done with the Stealth. Note that fiberglass is easy to work with, can be cut with a jigsaw, but can strip if overtightening screws. So proceed with caution and familiarize yourself with working with fiberglass if you never have.

When you get the Stealth, the 1st thing you will notice is the footwells are tight for us cold water kayakers that wear booties.


This is mainly because the Stealths come from Durban, South Africa where the water is warm year round. Easy fix. After quadruple checking the placement of the foot pedal guides for my perfect fit, removed the  guides, trimmed off unused portion, sand rough edge, reinstall. Can always reattach the removed section as well.
Much better.

Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:39:26 PM
Second thing you will notice the flush mount rod holders are small and wont fit a lot of the poles, nets and gaffs we use in the ocean. Replaced with larger ones more common on kayaks outfitted here.

Big difference. Be careful not to strip the fiberglass when attaching. If you're more industrious than I, figuring a way to reinforce the flush mounts, especially those right behind the seat because of the flex in the glass, would be a most excellent upgrade.

Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:41:39 PM
Third is the seat backrest attaches to the grab handle on one side and fabric loop on the other. After a couple uses they were already showing wear. Easy fix, replaced with hard attachments.

I also added a few of these along the rear deck for extra tie downs.

 
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:49:08 PM
These are the only musts in my opinion, and mostly can be attributed to differences between the South African and American market. Every region has different conditions, use different equipment, and have different requirements. Luckily, these mods are cheap and easy.

Everything else is personal preference. On my pro fisha these are fish-finder/battery and above deck rod holders for and aft. I mounted the fish-finder and front rod holder on the fish hatch lid that I had reinforced with varnished 3/8" marine plywood and the rear rod holder just behind the dry well.

Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 10, 2014, 03:51:34 PM
The battery is placed towards the rear of the fish hatch and held in place with velcro on the bottom of the battery and a velcro loop attachment on the side.

I have a shorai lithium battery from my dirt bike that has 18ah and only weighs 2.3 lbs. hopefully it will allow a couple days of fishing without recharging.

Thats it so far. The forward mount rod holder worked well for salmon trolling and the deck still feels uncluttered, and the kayak still paddles like a dream. 14 miles of trolling (5 more than I had ever done before), no shoulder pain, and I could still easily lift the kayak at the end of the day. So sweet.

See you on the water.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: fishkraft on April 10, 2014, 07:13:31 PM
Excellent write up Matt. Long days, easy load and unload and lots of speed for when you need to cut and run. Sounds perfect to me.  I'm expecting mine any day now and I can't wait to get after some fish so I can figure out just how I want to rig her.

ruben
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: fishkraft on April 10, 2014, 08:21:00 PM
Hey Matt, where'd you put your transducer?

ruben
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 11, 2014, 08:12:57 AM
Excellent write up Matt. Long days, easy load and unload and lots of speed for when you need to cut and run. Sounds perfect to me.  I'm expecting mine any day now and I can't wait to get after some fish so I can figure out just how I want to rig her.

ruben

Thanks, man. You'll be stoked when it comes in. Just make sure to remember your high and low bracing and a modified sweep stroke when it gets snotty. First thing I did was go to the lagoon and lean until I dumped to find that edge of secondary stability (reentry is a piece of cake).

I put the transducer through the inspection port and gooped to the hull. I tried to figure out how to do a sealed wet mount but was unsuccessfull. There is even a slot in the port cover for the cable.

Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on April 11, 2014, 08:19:45 AM
One other thing I will add is the fish hatch strapping. It took me a minute to figure out how these worked (could just be me), but once I did they are very secure. Anyway, here is a pictorial.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: snapperhead on April 11, 2014, 09:28:28 AM
Can't wait to test paddle one. Great write-up and pics, thanks for posting!
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: Paddleboy84 on April 11, 2014, 10:09:41 AM
Looks good Matt. Your pioneering the way for future Stealth owners here in the US.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on August 27, 2014, 01:19:07 AM
On the 575 about the only thing I'm tempted to change is the 1st hatch strap, which I might replace w a wider strap and buckle that can be snapped quickly and w one hand

There are some other latching options but haven't decided yet and nowadays good chandleries are few and far between

When you have to open a hatch in rough water it's about being quick and in control Have had two ops to test that since I got the 575 and took water both times



I also thought about putting hard attach points for the seat back but what WM had didn't cut it

I did replace the seat back w a much simpler one, can't remember the brand. Nothing wrong w the Stealth one just saw a simpler one and bought it


Have had no problem fitting my rods and net in the pole holders so am happy there



Curious why you didn't use the Stealth hatch lid made for fish finder? Or maybe they don't make it for the 525?

I've never used a ff but had them ship one w mine in case I go over to the dark side
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on August 27, 2014, 07:15:37 AM
To tell you the truth, I didn't no the had a fish finder lid. Could be a nice upgrade. I've gotten really good at the one hand latch and unlatch. I've grown to like the straps, they really secure the lid tight and when I have a salmon burying my rod tip in the water it puts a lot of torque on the hatch.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 11, 2014, 12:55:14 AM
I'm curious how you did the hard attachments, if you put any kind of reinforcement behind them etc

I'm thinking I may put a flush mount for a Scotty rod holder on the hatch, don't think I could bring myself to cut holes in the yak but drilling the hatch lid doesn't seem like the worst thing
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 11, 2014, 10:26:13 AM
I used marine plywood finished with marine varnish cut to the size of the (boat) front 2/3 of the hatch, then epoxied. Attached the rod holder mount with bolts and fender washers. I didn't go flush mount because that extra couple inches of height gets the rod off the legs. I put a rod holder just behind the rear hatch as well for 2 rod halibut fishing as the glass is really sturdy there, carefully sizing of the drill bit is crucial to getting good bite.

I've also seen the post mount mounted on the rear hatch lid, but that looked like a pain to me.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: DaveW on September 11, 2014, 10:47:18 AM
This is what kinda gets me about these boats.  This seems like a like of MacGyver-ing around to have to do on an expensive boat.  I've been screwing around with old make-do kayaks for years, and this is what I don't want to have to do on a new, expensive boat.

I loved paddling the boat, so I guess it's a trade-off.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 11, 2014, 11:08:54 AM
 Every kayak takes a little customization. Don't let my macgiverin fool you. The boat comes ready to roll.  The four rod holders aft are plenty and work well. Get the ff lid and you don't need to drill anything. In fact, mounting everything on the lid made everything really easy. The bigger rod holders were only because the types of rods I use. 
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 11, 2014, 12:34:33 PM
This is what kinda gets me about these boats.  This seems like a like of MacGyver-ing around to have to do on an expensive boat.  I've been screwing around with old make-do kayaks for years, and this is what I don't want to have to do on a new, expensive boat.
You guys get me thinking about mods but after a year w the 575 I'm convinced the only thing to macgyver is one's personal habits For me the main thing is just getting used to having a trolling rod behind me, but a kayak actually tracks straighter w 2 1/2 lbs hanging behind than off the side

Other than a couple of minor details my 575 will probably remain original
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 11, 2014, 12:49:48 PM
This is what kinda gets me about these boats.  This seems like a like of MacGyver-ing around to have to do on an expensive boat.  I've been screwing around with old make-do kayaks for years, and this is what I don't want to have to do on a new, expensive boat.
You guys get me thinking about mods but after a year w the 575 I'm convinced the only thing to macgyver is one's personal habits For me the main thing is just getting used to having a trolling rod behind me, but a kayak actually tracks straighter w 2 1/2 lbs hanging behind than off the side

Other than a couple of minor details my 575 will probably remain original

Yeah, man. These things are sweet right out of the box. FF install would be anyboat, and that ff lid is sweet.

I like trolling with the rod in front but most guys catching marlin on these things have the rods behind. Also, the rudder works so well that you can't really tell the weight is hanging off the side rather than the back. The only necessary mod for me was the foot well guides. It was a tight fit with booties, but that was about as easy a fix as there is.

Really, Dave, don't overthink it. I do tinker too much on my motorcycle and kayak for my own good. The stealth's fish as well stock as any boat out there, with the bonus that all your gear can be stowed below deck= no yard sale.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 11, 2014, 01:58:50 PM
Jeez Wizz I thought I had big feet, you must be sporting some boats

It is nice having the rod in front of you when a salmon hits but I haven't missed any of the fish that hit w it behind me so far

I don't even own a fishfinder and I bought one of those lids just in case down the road
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 13, 2014, 03:09:24 PM
These are the hard attachments I'm thinking about doing

Wondering if you did reinforcement there or what

Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: fishkraft on September 13, 2014, 08:35:00 PM
I used a stainless d ring attachment using the existing mounting bolts.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 14, 2014, 10:44:47 AM
I did not reinforce, but make sure the pilot hole is small and the screws have plenty of grab, the deck is pretty thick. but I like Rubens method as you can use existing holes to mount.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 14, 2014, 05:14:42 PM
but I like Rubens method as you can use existing holes to mount.
Agree that is a good approach

Might sound like it but I'm not against modifying, just reluctant as hell to get a drill bit next to one of my all time favorite material possessions

I had it out for a short jaunt Friday and was dying to take it in the surf but had to run home to prep for dinner guests
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: ravensblack on September 14, 2014, 05:21:39 PM
I did not reinforce, but make sure the pilot hole is small and the screws have plenty of grab, the deck is pretty thick. but I like Rubens method as you can use existing holes to mount.

Are you opposed to using a folding river there for the seat straps? Still reluctant also to drill holes but the grab handle approximation to the seat straps on the Evo wont allow Rubens method without a large portion of strap from the backrest possibly interfering for re-entry.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: Tsuri on September 14, 2014, 11:51:24 PM

I've never used a ff but had them ship one w mine in case I go over to the dark side

Must agree........ but let me know when you join the "dark side".

I may need to buy a new toy that doesn't take up to much space, and they are getting cheaper and smaller.....also if you transgress then I will feel better about it  :smt001.



Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 15, 2014, 03:31:38 PM
Anyone w any brains would use a ff, big advantage to know every time you're over bait

I may transgress soon, just need to shake my Luddite mindset
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: DaveW on September 15, 2014, 06:28:42 PM
Quote
I may transgress soon, just need to shake my Luddite mindset

Paul, I resisted for years and then got one.  I was so mesmerized by it on the first day, watching the bottom, that I paddled right into a rock.  Don't do that with your fiberglass boat.  :smt003

I was a wrench throwing Luddite, but I got to say when mine's not working now I'm bummed.

When you think about it, Kayaks are a technological step up over paddling on a log with your hands, so you're already on the dark road.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 15, 2014, 08:24:07 PM
I did not reinforce, but make sure the pilot hole is small and the screws have plenty of grab, the deck is pretty thick. but I like Rubens method as you can use existing holes to mount.

Are you opposed to using a folding river there for the seat straps? Still reluctant also to drill holes but the grab handle approximation to the seat straps on the Evo wont allow Rubens method without a large portion of strap from the backrest possibly interfering for re-entry.

Don't see why that wouldn't work. I just did what I know.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 15, 2014, 08:29:07 PM
but I like Rubens method as you can use existing holes to mount.


Might sound like it but I'm not against modifying, just reluctant as hell to get a drill bit next to one of my all time favorite material possessions



Absofreakinlutely one of my all time favorite possessions. Just went 6 miles off shore chasing flatties today, will post a report tomorrow, but this boat makes it enjoyable rather than work to cover those kinds of miles. And the more I fish it, the more I abaoluty love the design. It fishes extremely well, and off lost probably 1/16 of the gear I lose in a normal year.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 15, 2014, 08:43:22 PM
I think about being 6 or 8 miles offshore a few years ago on a heavy plastic slug and wonder what the hell I was thinking


One of the things I was planning to do before married life ensnared me was tour the southern Alaska coastline from the water side w a little camping and fishing gear and probably a .45

One of the Stealths would be perfect for it
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: bluekayak on September 15, 2014, 09:09:56 PM
Are you opposed to using a folding river there for the seat straps? Still reluctant also to drill holes but the grab handle approximation to the seat straps on the Evo wont allow Rubens method without a large portion of strap from the backrest possibly interfering for re-entry.
I wonder if they make rivets that are of like metal or at least close to whatever you're mounting If they're too far off seems like it could be a problem down the road

I had to climb on the 575 in rough water and I just flattened the seat back until I got back on

The 575 has the offset position, not sure if that's what you're talking about
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: wizz on September 16, 2014, 09:48:22 AM
I think about being 6 or 8 miles offshore a few years ago on a heavy plastic slug and wonder what the hell I was thinking


One of the things I was planning to do before married life ensnared me was tour the southern Alaska coastline from the water side w a little camping and fishing gear and probably a .45

One of the Stealths would be perfect for it

I agree. I've been mentioning to a few folks a multiday excursion from shelter cove to bear harbor, then either back to the cove or down to the mendo coast to take out. I think it's 8 or so miles to bear harbor and another 11 to the first mendo take out.
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: DaveW on September 16, 2014, 10:51:51 AM
Sign me up for that one!
Title: Re: Rigging the Stealth Pro Fisha
Post by: Fisherman X on September 16, 2014, 04:23:54 PM
That sounds like a great trip. If it were up to me I'd vote for Shelter to Bear to Mendo take-out.