Keel protection

Just wondering where everyone stands here. We all love our Hobies. During the summer "teacher off of work" i use my Hobie 2-3 times a week. I never drag my kayak, ever. I have guards in the back "Pro Angler". But the bow keel is always getting set down on pavement and the first to touch when coming aground. Trust me when i say mine has more than a few beauty marks on her. It is expected in the salt. What i am trying to get at is if there is any way to safeguard the front keel from getting shredded? It is a wear point other than the back witch Hobie addressed.

I use packing tape over any wear areas. It's durable, waterproof and easily replaced when dinged up. You could also try duct tape. Or you can carry a small carpet square to rest the bow on. I don't see any necessity to have scratches as long as you have wheels.

BTW, for lake use, the wheels go on and off in the water and act as a parking brake when I want to leave the boat briefly just off shore. Obviously this doesn't work well in surf or any shorebreak.

I sent an e-mail last week to the crew at keelshield.com to inquire if their boat keel shields would adhere to Kayaks, they responded as follows:

We are working on a brand new KeelShield that will adhere to kayaks like yours. I will be able to give you a date that they will be available by the end of this month and will drop you an email.

I'll post an update if I hear anything.

_________________
Happy Yak Fishing!
Patricia

Hey thats super!!!

Good find. Be sure to keep up alerted...................ck

_________________
Never argue with an idiot, they will just drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.