Backslider's Sort-of Pimped Dual-Hatch Tarpon 160

Hey All,

Well, I think I've taken the kayak to the point of "photo-worthy".  I'm pretty satisfied with the rigging thus far.  I bought a stock (absolutely nothing on it) Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160... not the new 160i, but the "original" two hatch (forward and aft) set-up.  Here are three photos of it before the roto-zip and cordless drill.







All the marine plywood you see is for a 16' skiff that will probably not be getting built now that I have this bad boy.

Anyway, here are a couple photos after some rigging work:

Electronics and Rod-holder



Electronics and Rod-holder again



Electronics and Rod-holder again



New-School Power Supply... I remove the batteries only.  The case is gooped to the kayak.  I didn't want to listen to anything rattling around inside the hull.



Power Supply again, looking through the forward hatch.



RAM Tubes and Flush-mounts.  You can also see the cam cleat for the anchor line.



This set-up is very simple.  I like the fact that everything is removable for storage (through surf), and that I was able to keep the cockpit clear by installing the RAM balls in the footwell recesses.  The only things that stick out are behind the seat.  Also, the RAM hardware is super functional... I can adjust my layout to suit my needs for any given situation, loadout, or conditions.

Anyway, here's my anchor set-up.



Cam cleat and Fairlead.



The bungee helps absorb any shock loading.



The anchor line is fed through a ring and attached with a slip-knot.  The ring determines how much line goes to the anchor.  The rest of the line is wound on the spool and the spool is held in the lap while fishing.



As the anchor loads up, the ring slides aft to keep the kayak pointed bow to the bait and fish.



To release, simply pull the short line out of the cam cleat and throw the spool of anchor line away from the kayak.  Easy, and oh so simple.





To reset the anchor, retrieve the float and spool of line, then just paddle backwards a couple of strokes until you can grab the short line.  Feed it through the ring, and then re-seat the short line in the cam cleat.  By the way, the only time I need to use the fairlead (that round bungee cord holder thingy) is when I actually have something loaded in the flush-mount.

The anchor rig worked extremely well this last Saturday in San Pablo Bay.

Backslider

Your anchor set up is VERY similar to mine with a few slight exceptions.
My fairlead is one piece of rope going through an eyelet on the rear. That way there are zero knots for the anchor slide to hook up on.
I have the same rope winder set up you have BUT ( and take this from someone who has experienced it ) you will need to attach a MUCH bigger float in addition to what you already have. I use a big white floating boat fender ( Walmart $6 ).
Slide ( made froma bungie cord ) - boat fender - rope winder - anchor. If you have to release your anchor due to a big fish you will NEVER find it because of how far away you will be once you land the fish. Even with GPS, the water which usually holds fish that necessitate a release is dirty. It will take you forever to find it, especially is the current is ripping. Have something that floats high and bright. You will not be disappointed.
Hopefully I will be able to post some pics later tonight.

Yep, I was hoping somebody was going to comment on that.  I was really worried about the float being too small.  The $6 fender from Walmart sounds good... West Marine wants WAY too much for them.

Backslider

All the marine plywood you see is for a 16' skiff that will probably not be getting built now that I have this bad boy.

I wouldn't give up on her, the offseason will be here shortly  
Sorry, I just like seeing project boats get built  



BTW nice job on the yak, probably the best rigged two hatcher I've seen.

OK. Finally got some pics of my anchor system. Here it is.

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/bb/index.php?topic=6529.0

Hi Tote (or anyone else that cares to comment),

How much anchor line do you routinely throw out?  Is it always the same amount?

I'm carrying a hundred feet of line... I know I don't need that much.  I'd like to do away with the silver ring in my set-up (it's only there so I can adjust how much line is out), and instead tie oh, say, fifty feet or so of the anchor line directly to my brand new $6 Wal-mart fender (thanks for the heads-up).  That way I can just throw the fender in the water and let it float to the back of the kayak as the anchor loads up.  I won't have to hold anything in my lap, or throw anything when the time is right... just pull the line and release... makes it even more simpler. 

Also, what other situations is an anchor system required?  I've heard people talking about tying off to kelp in the ocean... I have no experience with that.  Any help is appreciated.

Backslider

Depending on what the water is like will determine how much line I let out. I do not want to let out the entire length if I don't have to. That is why I keep it coiled on that plastic extention cord holder. I let as much or as little line as I want, put a half hitch on the winder and let the thing hang in the water. The rope I don't use stays wound up.
Personally, I only use the quick release if I need just that; a QUICK release. If I am in the ocean and use an anchor I tie it down.
If I am on my kayak and the quick release accidently lets go for whatever reason; I am right there to deal with it. If I am under water and it happens, I am SOL. That is why I make sure it is secured when I dive.
I usually use mine when there is current and I want to remain in one place to fish. Salmon on the American, Sturgeon in the bay.
I think 100 feet is WAY more than enough rope. It all depends on where you plan on fishing.