How to Install a RAM Mount to a Kayak

kayak fishing image by Mitchell Knapton from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

The company, RAM Mount, manufactures several different fishing rod holder mounts; however, they are all either flush-mount systems or mount-on-top systems. Mount-on-top systems are simple to install; you simply screw the base into the kayak where you want to fish from. Flush-mount systems are a little more complicated to install, but provide the benefit of allowing you to continue to be able to store your kayak upside-down.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

RAM Mount system
Drill
Hole-saw drill bit
Phillips-head drill bit
Screws
Felt pen
Silicon sealant
Hobby knife

Step 1

Sit in your kayak and decide where you would like to place the rod-holder mount. Behind the seat is one ideal place because it does not interfere with the paddles, yet is easily accessible.

Step 2

Place the flush-mount base against the kayak where you want to install the system. The tube that is protruding from the bottom of the base should be pressed onto the kayak. Trace a line around the tube onto the kayak with the felt pen.

Step 3

Attach the hole-saw bit to the drill and cut a hole where you traced the line. Make the hole just smaller than the tracing, so when you insert the base, you will have to force it into place.

Step 4

Scrape away any plastic shavings around the hole with the hobby knife.

Step 5

Push the tube on the base through the hole. Because the hole is slightly smaller than the tube it will require force to push it through; however, the snugness will prevent water from getting into your kayak. Don’t push the tube all the way down yet.

Step 6

Apply the sealant around the tube and then push it all the way down.

Step 7

Fasten the screws into the holes around the base with the Phillips-head drill bit.

Step 8

Insert the rest of the rod-holder system into the base.

Tips & Warnings

Place a cap over the hole of the base mount to prevent water from spilling into your kayak. Most systems come with a cap, but for those that don’t, you can find a cap at most sporting-goods stores.

Resources

RAM Mounts

Article Written By Jacob Hendriks

Jacob Hendriks' work has appeared in "The Western Front," "The Planet Magazine" and Trails.com. He graduated from Western Washington University with a major in international business management and a minor in Community Health. Hendriks' passion for sports nutrition and fitness, combined with experience as a personal trainer, has led him to pursue health-oriented journalism.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...