Hatch addition questions.

I am thinking of adding a hatch or two to my Tarpon 130T. I use it for a bit of everything. Fishing, hunting, boat in camping and I find the amount of deck space is great when I run solo but it gets top heavy loaded up with camping gear, decoys etc... I would also like to load it up with some noodles but the current access holes are much too small.

Q1: is this even a good idea. Will adding hatches weaken the structure too much or greatly increase the risk of leaks?

Q2: lots of different hatch models around any preferred types? Easy to open, seal well and what not.

Q3: Any questions I should ask but have not?

Thanks in advance. Look forward to seeing some of you out on the water this summer.

Phil

I don't own a T-13 but did add round hatches to my kayaks before and it's not that hard.  I like the twist-n-seal  type from Hobie.  See sample below:

http://www.kayakshed.com/hobie-kayak-gear/hobie-kayaks-twist-n-seal-hatch

Guess its time to measure and figure out what will fit.

I am thinking of adding a hatch or two to my Tarpon 130T. I use it for a bit of everything. Fishing, hunting, boat in camping and I find the amount of deck space is great when I run solo but it gets top heavy loaded up with camping gear, decoys etc... I would also like to load it up with some noodles but the current access holes are much too small.

Q1: is this even a good idea. Will adding hatches weaken the structure too much or greatly increase the risk of leaks?

Q2: lots of different hatch models around any preferred types? Easy to open, seal well and what not.

Q3: Any questions I should ask but have not?

Thanks in advance. Look forward to seeing some of you out on the water this summer.

Phil

IMO, it probably is a good idea just so you can adapt the kayak to your needs. Unless you pepper the thing with holes, you won't compromise the structure or risk more leaks. This may be a smaller hatch than you have in mind but one I'll be adding to access the aft section of my Prowler 15. Pic courtesy Tote:  http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?action=dlpmattach;pm=183413;attach=1627;image

Not sure what to suggest for your particular kayak or needs but adding access is not a problem if done correctly.