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Topic: Kayak Tow Rope  (Read 2471 times)

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Shred

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Trying to get everything right before I hit the Big Blue.  I have had my kayaks in the back yard for a couple weeks now.  Built a trailer to haul them (somehow talked the wife into joining me in this adventure).  Have read over this board and done everything / bought everything based on this boards comments and some google help. Down to a few last things...

Which Kayak Tow Rope should I have on board.  Kokatat, NRS, North Water or a home made idea?

Any and all help is appreciated!


P-Sherman

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I usually have at least one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Scotty-Throw-50-Feet-Floating-Line/dp/B002BBK59C

you can use as a tow line and/or rescue line. I’ve always have these from my “Swiftwater Rescue” days.
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eelkram

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I carry the "Seals Quick Tow system with quick release belt."  Looking online now, I know I didnt pay as much as they're asking for it now... maybe I bought it when it was on sale? 

Anyway, i was too lazy to make one, so I bought it since it had the features I was looking for: quick release belt, bungie for shock absorption, enough length for maneuverability, and conveniently small package. I keep it in the bungies attached to the back of my seat, so it's handy when needed.

If you're going for fully rigged safety, carry an extra length of rope for each kayak with a clip in addition to the tow rope.  Also, have tow systems for each kayak.
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Fisherman X

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Mark has good points and knows. But if you are cheap and a “I can do it cheaper myself” type, a home made one or just a hank of rope is fine.

IME, Biggest considerations for ocean trips, launch/landings are two things:
1. Learn to discern the right/wrong time to go according to swell and direction and be willing to say today is “No-Go” due to conditions when you get there.
2. Learn and practice self rescue. Stow/lash your gear out of the way for surf landings. Stuff happens.

A tutor is good to advance the learning curve. Buddy up, don’t go alone. Learn from someone who has btdt.

And then there is “tow” rope.
« Last Edit: December 21, 2019, 09:36:18 PM by Fisherman X »
-Success is living the life you want-
Joel ><>

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Shred

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Grabbed 2 Seals Kayak Tow Ropes.  Seems to be the same as NRS and Kokatat but not at Kokatat price points!

I thank you all for your responses and advice.  And it's cool you guys really preach the safety aspect. 
I am not new to the ocean as I've surfed all my life and spent a few years with my pop's fishing out Long Beach / Catalina on a 23' Reinell.
Point is, I have great respect and love of the sea.

On a side note, was at West Coast Marine yesterday picking up VHF radios and got into a conversation with one of the sales reps there.
We chatted about the different VHF options and kayak fishing in general.  Early in the conversation, Brian told me I should join NCKA because there is a wealth of knowledge there.

He also told me "I'd fish with you" after he heard of all the planning I was doing in preparation.  Made me feel good.  But again, kudos to this board for all you guys have to offer the "new peeps".




Fisherman X

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Right on, Shred.
The combination of your experience in and on the water will serve you well.

Sounds like you are plenty salty already. Get ready for a whole new perspective OTW from a ‘yak!
-Success is living the life you want-
Joel ><>

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Eddie

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I was under the impression that my anchor trolley that is clipped in the center with a carabiner to a stainless ring unclips and is a tow rope...hope I never have to test it...
“I’m going fishing.”  They said, “we will go with you.” 
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AlsHobieOutback

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I like to carry the Scotty Throw rope myself, and have used it to be towed in once before while in my AI.  It's always in my crate, and attached to something like my seat or pad eye so I can just reach back and toss it to someone in need.  https://www.amazon.com/Scotty-Throw-50-Feet-Floating-Line/dp/B002BBK59C
"A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for."

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Fisherman X

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Good point Al, a throw rope is a one of those things we all should carry and have within reach on deck.

I buckle mine on to the front hatch strap so it’s an easy grab. Periodically during the season, I practice tossing it so I have an idea how it will go.
« Last Edit: December 23, 2019, 01:59:50 PM by Fisherman X »
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Joel ><>

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AlsHobieOutback

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Yeah, def. practice with it, and practice putting the line back in properly, so it will toss well the next time you use it :) 
"A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for."

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I tied a monkey fist on the end of my tow line it gives you more distance when you trow it in case the person you are towing it to is caught in a bad location. There are plenty of vedios on how to tie  it.
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kayakjack

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Throw rope like sherm said. The ability to throw the rope effectively is key to helping people in trouble.


 

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