13 Best Kayak Bilge Pumps For 2023
Our writers and editors look for the best Kayak Bilge Pumps available. We test, research, and review the best products in different categories with a focus on quality, performance, and the overall value for the price.
Kayak bilge pumps are useful for removing large amounts of unwanted water from your kayak. Considering bilge pumps are a safety measure, we recommend that every kayaker consider having one.
Bilge pumps are also great for cleaning your kayak or canoe.
With the large number of available options for kayaks it can be difficult to know which one is best for you.
There are also a number of electric bilge pumps on the market, but this reviews only manual models.
Check out our buyer’s guide at the end of this article for more information on choosing the right bilge pump for your kayak.
The Top 5 Kayak Bilge Pumps in 2023
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1
Best Overall: NRS Kayak Bilge Pump -
2
Most Efficient: Beckson Marine Kayak Bilge Pump -
3
Most Comfortable to Use: Perception Kayak Bilge Pump -
4
Most Lightweight: Harmony Gear Kayak Bilge Pump -
5
Most Easily Stored: Seattle Sports Kayak Bilge Pump
All the Kayak Bilge Pumps We've tested
The NRS kayak bilge pump is easy to use when out on the water. Lightweight, versatile and convenient, it’s a great choice for kayakers looking for a quick and efficient way to remove unwanted water.
The NRS kayak bilge pump is convenient to use and can efficiently remove the water from your kayak quickly. Pumping 8 gallons per minute it’s one of the fastest options you can find.
Thanks to the protective foam that covers this bilge pump, the NRS is always protected from impact as well as from sun damage.
The foam also makes it buoyant so if you drop the pump in the water, then you can always retrieve it on the surface. The NRS kayak bilge pump is a very reliable option.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic/foam
- Dimensions: 21” x 1.75” x 1”
- Weight: 1lb
- Water removal rate: 8 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight -
Easy to use
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Very fast water removal rate
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Durable and protected
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Foam protects the pump from impacts
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Color means it can easily be spotted if dropped in the water
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It floats if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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If you take extended strokes where the internal stopper hits the top of the chamber you can break it. -
Bulky because it is lined in protective foam
This kayak bilge pump is a reliable and easy to use pump for clearing water from your kayak. Lightweight and easy to spot thanks to the red color, the Beckson Marine bilge pump can evacuate up to 8 gallons of water per minute.
It’s one of the more reliable models and can pump sand and dirt without any complaints.
The Beckson Marine bilge pump is an easy to use pump for efficiently removing water from your kayak. At just 0.69 lbs this pump is extremely lightweight and can be conveniently stored in the hull of your kayak.
With an output of around 8 gallons per minute this kayak bilge pump excels in getting large volumes of water out of your kayak. The handle and collar provide increased grip and can be held while pumping.
Although this kayak bilge pump is slightly more expensive than some of the other products on this list, it is well worth the money thanks to the pump’s reliability and output.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic/foam
- Dimensions: 20” x 4” x 3”
- Weight: 0.69 lbs
- Water removal rate: 8 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Super lightweight
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Easy to use
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Reliable and durable
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Fast and efficient at removing water
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Red color means it can easily be spotted
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It floats if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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The pump handle might sticks at the top of each stroke
The Perception Kayak bilge pump is a great investment for kayakers who always seem to rollover or flip.
This kayak bilge pump can remove a lot of water from your kayak in a short amount of time making it suitable for emptying a kayak that has capsized.
With a comfortable grip this pump is easy to use. Lightweight and compact, the Perception bilge pump can expel water at a rate of 1 gallon per 13 to 14 pumps, or 5 gallons per minute. That makes this a good option for a quick recovery.
Not only is this bilge pump effective but it can also be purchased at a competitive price.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 21” x 1.75” x 1”
- Weight: 0.88lbs
- Water removal rate: 5 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Comfortable grip
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Lightweight and compact
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Floats thanks to foam collar
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Water is removed on both upward and downward strokes
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Color means it can easily be spotted if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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Output hose diameter is too large for most conventional hoses
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Can rust if not properly maintained
A popular kayak bilge pump used to remove water from inundated canoes and kayaks, the Harmony gear kayak bilge pump is the smallest and lightest bilge pump on this list.
The Harmony gear kayak bilge pump is ideal for storage given its small size and compact design. This pump is also surprisingly efficient at evacuating large quantities of water from vessels given its size.
The pump itself is surrounded by nice soft foam allowing it to float if dropped in the water and its blue color makes it clearly visible so you can easily retrieve it.
It’s one of the lightest pumps you can find, which makes it easy to strap onto the boat with cargo lines anywhere along the hull.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic and Foam
- Dimensions: 16” x 5.51” x 2.95”
- Weight: 0.67 lbs
- Water removal rate: 7 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Super lightweight and compact
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Comfortable padded hand grip
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Foam collar helps it float
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Powerful considering how small it is
Things we don't like:
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Not compatible with any hose
The Seattle Sports kayak bilge pump is easy to use and can be conveniently stored anywhere in your kayak thanks to its compact dimensions. It features a comfortable grip and a foam collar that allows the pump to float if dropped in the water. The Seattle Sports bilge pump is also lightweight, making it portable and convenient for transportation.
The Seattle Sports kayak bilge pump is easy to use and can be conveniently stored anywhere in your kayak thanks to its compact dimensions. It features a comfortable grip and a foam collar that allows the pump to float if dropped in the water. The Seattle Sports bilge pump is also lightweight, making it portable and convenient for transportation.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic/foam
- Dimensions: 21” x 1.75” x 1”
- Weight: 0.8 lbs
- Water removal rate: 5 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Comfortable grip
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Foam collar that floats
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High visibility color
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Stylish color and design
Things we don't like:
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Pump can become damaged by direct sunlight
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Gets stuck if not properly maintained
The Newport Vessel kayak bilge pump is a reliable pump that allows you to rapidly remove water from your kayak.
This dual action kayak bilge pump is suitable for pumping water out of your kayak after taking on water. The pump has a foam collar so it will float if you drop it in the water. The Newport Vessels kayak bilge pump comes with a hose that allows you to eject water out so that it doesn’t end up inside the kayak. Additionally, the pump works with both freshwater and saltwater, just make sure to maintain it by giving it a rinse with fresh water after use.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic/foam
- Dimensions: 19” x 1.75” x 1”
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Water removal rate: 7 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight
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Floats with foam collar
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Fast pumping action
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Comes with a hose
Things we don't like:
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Not the most durable pump
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Heavier than most bilge pumps
The Pelican kayak bilge pump is a compact and powerful pump that does an excellent job of pumping water out of your kayak.
This kayak bilge pump is a fantastic addition to any kayaker’s accessories. It provides you with the ability to empty your kayak of water in a quick and efficient manner. Make sure you keep this bilge pump on your kayak at all times as it will help you out when you take on water. Designed to be portable and easy to use, the Pelican kayak bilge pump is one of the best kayak bilge pumps on the market.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 21” x 4” x 2.75”
- Weight: 0.76 lbs
- Water removal rate: 7 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Super lightweight
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Easy to use
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Powerful and fast
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Durable and long lasting
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Good comfortable grip
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Floats if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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Not the most sturdy or robust pump
The Attwood kayak bilge pump is a reliable option for quickly and efficiently removing water from your kayak. It’s reasonably priced with one of the better handles out there.
The Attwood kayak bilge pump does an exceptional job of pumping water out of your kayak. Although it doesn’t come with a hose, this bilge pump works quickly and is able to pump around 6 gallons of water out of your kayak per minute.
This is a durable and reliable bilge pump for your kayak, however it has been known to be easily damaged if not handled properly i.e. left out in the sun, not properly maintained after use in the salt water.
Specs & Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 21” x 3” x 3”
- Weight: 0.75 lbs
- Water removal rate: 6 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight
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Quick and efficient
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Impact resistant
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Ergonomic grip
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Floats if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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Can easily be damaged by the sun if left out
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Bolts that hold the handle on can rust if not maintained
Where to buy:
For a popular and easy to use bilge pump that comes with a hose, Best Marine has designed a pump that can get at tough to reach spots.
The Best Marine kayak bilge pump is a lightweight and compact kayak bilge pump that allows you to quickly remove water from your kayak.
Although the Best Marine pump is not the most powerful pump, mainly because of its size, it allows you to safely and conveniently store it anywhere for easy access when taking on water.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic and Foam
- Dimensions: 17” x 3” x 3”
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Water removal rate: 5 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Affordable
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Lightweight and compact
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Comes with a hose
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Has a foam collar that allows it to float
Things we don't like:
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Low quality material
The SeaSense kayak bilge pump is often used on boats as it can remove a lot of water in a short amount of time.
The SeaSense hand bilge pump is a manual hand pump designed to remove large volumes of water from small boats, canoes and kayaks. The anti-leak feature of this pump means that it can evacuate water more efficiently as no water drips out when pumping. This pump is not only affordable, but it is also convenient for getting water out of areas that are hard to reach.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 20.75” x 4.5” x 3.5”
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Water removal rate: 6 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Affordable
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Lightweight
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Anti-leak design
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Comes with a removable hose
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Resistant to corrosion and rust
Things we don't like:
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Handle is uncomfortable
The Amarine Made kayak bilge pump is a great choice for kayakers looking for a compact and efficient bilge pump to store on their kayak in case of emergency.
Used to easily evacuate water from the inside of a kayak or canoe, the Amarine Made kayak bilge pump is an essential tool to any kayaker’s arsenal. With an outer EVA collar this pump features increased flotation and an easy to use handle. The anti-leak design allows you to be efficient when pumping out the water and not suffer from runoff refilling your kayak. This pump is a useful and reliable piece of safety gear for your vessel.
Specs & Features
- Material: Polypropylene and Foam
- Dimensions: 19.88” x 5.31” x 2.44”
- Weight: 0.93 lbs
- Water removal rate: 5 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Affordable
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Lightweight and compact
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Ergonomic grip on handle
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Has a foam collar that is anti skid increasing flotation
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Has an anti-leak design with removable gasket
Things we don't like:
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Not the most durable pump
The Sea to Summit bilge pump offers double action pumping and can remove 14 ounces of water per pump. It also happens to be one of the most compact pumps available.
The Sea to Summit pump works great and pumps out a large volume of water at approximately 6 gallons per minute. As well as being easy to use, this kayak bilge pump is compact and lightweight making it ideal for transportation and storage.
Additionally, the pump has a sturdy handle that offers a more comfortable grip when pumping water. The orange color helps it stand out in the water and it means the bilge pump can be easily found within the hull of your kayak.
Specs & Features
- Material: Stainless steel and foam
- Dimensions: 18” x 4” x 3”
- Weight: 0.88 lbs
- Water removal rate: 6 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight
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Sturdy and doesn’t jam
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Pumps water out easily and quickly
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Floats if dropped in the water
Things we don't like:
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The plunger sometimes separates from the shaft
The Better Boat kayak bilge pump is an efficient and reliable pump that features an anti-clog system and an ergonomic handle for efficiently removing water from your kayak.
The Better Boat kayak bilge pump is convenient to use and can quickly and efficiently remove the water from your kayak. It’s integrated no-clog filter prevents leaves and debris getting caught in the pump and also enables a faster removal of water.
The hose is 39” long which makes it great for reaching the bottom of your boat or kayak. However, often there have been complaints that there is a kink in the hose making it difficult for one person to use. It is advised to have an extra person hold the hose in place for maximum efficiency.
The Better Boat bilge pump is fitted with a premium watertight rubber gasket seal which ensures a high suction pressure, making it quick and easy to remove water. Overall this is a good value kayak bilge pump.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 16.5” x 3” x 3”
- Weight: 1.1lbs
- Water removal rate: 6 Gallon per minute
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Lightweight
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Easy to use
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Comfortable ergonomic handle
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No-clog filter
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Comes with a long hose
Things we don't like:
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Kink in the hose
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Doesn’t float
Related Reviews
Kayak Bilge Pump Buyer’s Guide
Why should you get a bilge pump for your kayak?
As capsizing is the primary accident in 55% of kayak and canoe incidents, having a reliable way to remove water from your kayak is essential for when (not if) you start taking on water or capsize.
Material
Kayak bilge pumps are all generally made of the same materials; plastic and foam. The plastic makes up the tube and pump as well as the handle section of the bilge pump.
Additionally, the majority of bilge pumps have a foam collar that allows them to float if dropped in the water.
The difference in material for kayak bilge pumps comes less from the type of material, but rather from the quality of the plastic and foam used in the construction of the tool.
Size, Shape and Weight
Another important factor to consider when buying a kayak bilge pump is its size, most specifically it’s length.
Generally speaking the longer the tube of the pump the more volume that the tube will have in order to remove more water from your kayak in a faster time.
That said, the longer or bigger the size of your bilge pump, the harder it will be to store it on your kayak, especially if the hull of your vessel is compact and small.
Finally, the weight of the pump will play a significant role in how portable the bilge pump is. Most bilge pumps weigh 1lb or less, however there are some that way more. This is a matter of practicality and should be considered on a per kayak basis.
Water removal rate
The way to determine the efficiency of a kayak bilge pump comes down to the speed at which the pump removes water from your kayak.
This rate is measured in gallons per minute and we consider anything above 4 gallons per minute to be quick and effective at evacuating water from your vessel.
Safety
As we have stated before, having a reliable bilge pump is important for upholding the safety of your vessel by making sure that you have a means of removing water and restoring your kayak. That said, it is also important to make sure that your other bases are covered by making sure you have a whistle or VHF radio for communication.
Remember, it’s also important to always wear a PFD (personal flotation device) when using a kayak.
Rinsing your kayak
There are other uses to kayak bilge pumps other than just removing unwanted water from your kayak. A secondary use is pumping water onto your kayak in order to rinse it after using it. You can also use sponges used for rinsing to remove water from your kayak.
As the kayak bilge pump has many uses, including the cleaning and maintenance of your kayak, we recommend spending a little more and getting a good one.
Frequently asked questions
There are many kayak bilge products available on the market, however, the best kayak bilge pumps are reliable, conveniently portable, and effective at removing water.
Check out our list of the best kayak bilge pumps:
- NRS Kayak Bilge Pump
- Perception Kayak Bilge Pump
- Harmony Gear Kayak Bilge Pump
- Seattle Sports Kayak Bilge Pump
- Newport Vessels Kayak Bilge Pump
- Pelican Kayak Bilge Pump
- Attwood Kayak Bilge Pump
- Best Marine Kayak Bilge Pump
- SeaSense Kayak Bilge Pump
- Amarine Made Kayak Bilge Pump
Read this article to find out more about the best kayak bilge pumps on the market.
A kayak bilge pump is a tool for removing unwanted water from your kayak after capsizing or inundating your vessel. It is considered to be a safety measure and so we advise that every kayaker stores one on board.
Read this article to see the best kayak bilge pumps available.
Yes, you definitely need a bilge pump for your kayak as if you end up flooding your vessel you won’t have an easy and efficient way to evacuate the water.
Read this article to find out more about the importance of bilge pumps.
There are many options for where to store your bilge pump in your kaya. As a rule of thumb you want to be able to have easy access to this tool in the event of an emergency so make sure that you store it in arms reach.
Most kayakers store their bilge pump in the hull of their kayak, however other kayakers recommend attaching your bilge pump to your kayak so that you don’t lose it when capsizing.
