Capturing the perfect shot while kayaking requires more than just a good camera. The choppy water, constant movement, and need for creative angles demand specialized accessories to get stable, dynamic footage. Without the right mounts and grips, your videos can end up blurry, shaky, or worse, you could lose your camera to the depths.
This roundup focuses on the essential tools to solve these problems. We have compiled a selection of mounts designed for kayak integration and stability aids to ensure your GoPro becomes a reliable filmmaking partner on the water. From versatile rail systems to personal mounts and safety gear, these accessories will help you record smooth, professional-looking kayaking adventures with confidence.
Our Recommended GoPro Kayak Accessories
- Universal Kayak Action Camera Mount 360 Degree Adjustable
- The Handler (Floating Hand Grip) – Official GoPro Accessory
- Huntury Kayak Track Adapter for Fishing Rod Holder
- 2 Pack Heavy-Duty Extend Side Kayak Track Mount
- 3003 4″ 2 Pack Kayak Track Textured Grip Surface
- Floating Hand Grip Waterproof Monopod for GoPro
- GoPro Suction Cup Mount (GoPro Official Mount)
- GoPro Chesty (Performance Chest Mount)
- Accessories Set for GoPro with Head Strap and Chest Mount
- GoPro Jaws: Flex Clamp
Universal Kayak Action Camera Mount 360 Degree Adjustable
This mount is a foundational piece for any kayaker with a track system. Its broad compatibility means it fits most kayak tracks and connects directly to standard GoPro three-prong mounts, making it a versatile hub for your camera. The design prioritizes a secure connection to your kayak, providing a stable base even in turbulent water.
Once attached, the 360-degree adjustable ball head offers complete creative control. You can position your camera for a forward-facing POV, a selfie angle, or anything in between. The special rubber coating on the ball head ensures the angle stays locked in place, preventing slippage and guaranteeing your shot remains steady and precisely framed throughout your paddle.
The Handler (Floating Hand Grip) – Official GoPro Accessory
For kayakers who prefer a handheld perspective, The Handler is an essential safety and utility tool. Its primary benefit is keeping your GoPro afloat, providing peace of mind when filming over the side of the kayak or in any situation where a drop is possible. This official accessory is engineered for reliability in and around the water.
Beyond just floating, it functions as a comfortable grip that makes it easy to aim your camera and capture a variety of angles quickly. The quick-release base allows you to swiftly switch between The Handler and other mounts, making it a flexible part of your kit. It combines security with the freedom of a handheld shot, perfect for capturing b-roll or moments when you want direct control.
Huntury Kayak Track Adapter for Fishing Rod Holder
This adapter is a clever piece of engineering that enhances the functionality of your kayak’s track system. It allows you to securely lock a rod holder, fish finder, or your GoPro mount into the track. The key feature is its dual-locking mechanism; the base locks down securely while the upper part can still pan, so your gear won’t swing loose from vibrations or movement.
For the kayak angler who also films, this adapter is particularly useful. You can position your camera for a specific angle and trust that it will stay put. The design addresses a common flaw in other adapters by ensuring the inserted accessory is positively locked in place, greatly reducing the risk of losing expensive gear overboard during a long day on the water.
2 Pack Heavy-Duty Extend Side Kayak Track Mount
If your kayak lacks a track system or you need to add more mounting points, this heavy-duty track is the solution. Its thicker, reinforced construction is built to handle demanding conditions and support heavier accessories without flexing or failing. This gives you a reliable foundation for your camera and other gear.
The versatility of this track is a major advantage. It is universally compatible with most track accessories and features a fixed knob that can be swapped out with other components from the same brand, like cup holders or cleats. This allows you to fully customize your kayak’s setup, creating a personalized command center for both fishing and filming.
3003 4″ 2 Pack Kayak Track Textured Grip Surface
This low-profile kayak track is an excellent option for adding secure mounting points without a bulky profile. The textured surface is a key feature, providing extra grip to prevent accessories from sliding within the track due to vibrations or impacts. This ensures your GoPro mount stays exactly where you position it.
Designed for easy installation, the track has slanted cuts and a curved base to fit the contours of your kayak seamlessly. It comes with stainless steel screws for a corrosion-resistant hold. As it is compatible with a wide range of track accessories, it serves as a versatile platform not just for your camera, but for rod holders, paddle keepers, and more.
Floating Hand Grip Waterproof Monopod for GoPro
This third-party floating grip offers great value and additional features. Like The Handler, its bright color and buoyant design keep your camera safe and visible if dropped in the water. The textured EVA foam handle provides a secure, non-slip grip even when wet, which is crucial for maintaining control during active kayaking.
A unique feature of this model is its multi-purpose hollow compartment. This chamber can be used to store small valuables to keep them dry, or it can be filled with water to achieve neutral buoyancy for stable underwater shooting. This added functionality makes it more than just a handle; it’s a versatile tool for both surface and subsurface recording.
GoPro Suction Cup Mount (GoPro Official Mount)
The official GoPro Suction Cup Mount is your ticket to unique and stable camera angles on the kayak itself. You can attach it to a smooth, flat surface on the hull or deck to capture a low-angle shot that shows the water rushing past. Its industrial-strength suction is proven reliable at high speeds, so it will hold firm through normal kayaking movements and splashes.
This mount provides a broad range of motion, allowing you to fine-tune the camera’s angle after it’s secured. It’s perfect for achieving shots that are impossible with a track mount, such as a perspective from the very front or side of the kayak. For a rock-solid attachment on smooth surfaces, this mount is a professional-grade option.
GoPro Chesty (Performance Chest Mount)
For a immersive, first-person point-of-view that captures your paddling motion, the Chesty is an excellent choice. It secures the camera to your torso, providing a stable platform that moves with you, effectively minimizing the shakiness that can come from holding a camera in your hands. This results in smooth, engaging footage from the kayaker’s perspective.
The mount is designed for comfort during extended use, with padded and breathable materials. It is fully adjustable to fit a wide range of body types and can even be worn over bulky clothing like a winter jacket or a personal flotation device. This makes it a reliable and comfortable option for capturing your kayaking experience in any season.
Accessories Set for GoPro with Head Strap and Chest Mount
This comprehensive bundle is ideal for someone building their GoPro kit from the ground up. It includes a head strap, chest harness, backpack clip, and wrist strap, covering nearly every basic mounting need for action sports. The quick-release design is a significant convenience, allowing you to switch between perspectives in seconds without fumbling with screws.
The variety of mounts in one package lets you experiment with different angles during your kayak trip. Use the head strap for a true “see-what-I-see” view, the chest mount for a stable POV of paddling, and the wrist strap for easy access to quick shots. This set provides tremendous value and flexibility for capturing all aspects of your adventure.
GoPro Jaws: Flex Clamp
The Jaws Flex Clamp is the ultimate tool for creative and unconventional mounting positions on a kayak. Its strong, flexible legs can wrap around virtually any object, such as a paddle shaft, a crossbar, or even a branch on the shore. This opens up a world of unique shot possibilities that are not achievable with standard mounts.
Once secured, the rubberized grips on the legs ensure it stays firmly in place without damaging the surface. The ball joint on the head allows for full 360-degree adjustment to get the perfect angle. For kayakers who want to capture dynamic shots from their paddle or set up a camera in a tricky spot, the Flex Clamp offers unparalleled versatility and grip.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in GoPro Kayak Accessories
Getting smooth, stable footage from a kayak is a unique challenge. The constant motion, water spray, and need for creative angles mean you need the right gear. I’ve spent a lot of time figuring out what works and what doesn’t. When you’re looking for the best accessories for GoPro kayak recording, you need to focus on a few key things beyond just the mount itself.
First, let’s talk about stability. This is the most important factor for watchable video. A shaky clip is hard to watch. For this, you need a solid mounting system. Look for mounts that use strong, rigid arms. The standard GoPro adhesive mounts are surprisingly tough, but for longer extensions, you want something like a suction cup mount on a flat, clean part of the kayak or a bar mount that clamps securely onto a handle or rail. The connection points need to be tight and secure. I always give everything a good tug before I head out. For the ultimate in smoothness, a handheld gimbal is a game-changer. It actively counteracts the kayak’s rocking motion, giving you buttery-smooth footage as if you were on land.
Next, consider the angle and perspective. Sticking your camera on the front of the kayak is a classic shot, but don’t stop there. Think about getting a mouthpiece mount for a true first-person view of the surroundings, or a chest mount to capture your paddle strokes and the water right in front of you. A flexible J-hook or a grab bar mount can get you those cool over-the-side shots looking down into the water. Having a few different mounting options in your bag lets you tell a more complete story of your trip.
Finally, you have to prepare for the environment. You’re on the water, so things will get wet. A waterproof housing is your GoPro’s best friend, even if the camera itself is waterproof. It provides an extra layer of protection against splashes, spray, and accidental dunks. A floating hand grip or a floaty backdoor is absolutely essential if you’re mounting your camera anywhere it could fall into the water. It turns a potential disaster into a simple retrieval mission. Also, don’t forget about your power needs. A long day on the water can drain a battery. I always bring a portable power bank and a waterproof cable to top up my camera between sessions. By thinking about stability, angles, and protection, you’ll be well on your way to capturing incredible kayaking footage.
FAQ
What is the most stable GoPro mount for a kayak?
For maximum stability, a combination of a strong base and short arms works best. A large suction cup mount placed on a clean, flat part of the kayak’s deck or hull is incredibly solid. For a more permanent solution, a adhesive mount stuck directly to the kayak is also very stable. If you need some height, use the shortest extension arm possible to minimize leverage and wobble. Avoid long, flimsy selfie sticks for your primary fixed shots, as they amplify every little movement.
How can I protect my GoPro from water damage while kayaking?
Even though newer GoPros are waterproof, I always use the official Super Suit or a dive housing. This protects the camera’s more fragile ports and buttons from corrosion and provides a much stronger seal against constant immersion or powerful jets of water. It’s cheap insurance for an expensive camera. Also, make sure all housing seals are clean and free of sand or hair before closing them.
What if my GoPro falls in the water?
This is a real fear, but it’s easily mitigated. You should always use a floatation device. The official “Floaty” backdoor replaces your standard battery door and keeps your camera bobbing on the surface. Alternatively, a floating hand grip or a bright orange floaty strap attached to your mount will do the trick. A bright color makes it much easier to spot if it does go overboard.
Do I need a gimbal for kayaking?
You don’t need one, but it makes a dramatic difference. If your primary goal is to get super smooth, cinematic footage without any of the kayak’s natural rocking, a handheld gimbal is the best tool for the job. It’s an investment, but for serious video creators, it’s worth it. For most people, using GoPro’s built-in HyperSmooth stabilization with a well-secured mount is more than good enough.
What are some creative mounting positions for kayak footage?
Don’t just point the camera forward. Try a mouth mount for a true POV as you look around. A chest mount captures your paddle action and the water ahead. You can use a J-hook to clamp onto the kayak’s side for a cool water-level shot. For a unique “follow” perspective, you can even mount the camera on the end of your paddle, though this requires a very secure connection. Experimenting with different angles is part of the fun of finding the best accessories for GoPro kayak recording.
How do I manage battery life on long kayak trips?
Battery life can be short, especially when recording in high resolutions. I always carry at least two extra fully-charged batteries in a waterproof case. For all-day trips, a small, waterproof power bank is a lifesaver. You can tuck it in a dry bag and run a cable to your camera during a break to give it a quick charge without having to open any housings or change batteries on the water.