Tracking your kayak routes and speed is no longer a luxury reserved for elite paddlers; it’s an essential tool for any enthusiast looking to improve their performance, log their adventures, and ensure their safety on the water. The right app or device can provide invaluable data on your distance, pace, and the path you’ve traveled, turning a simple trip into a analyzed journey. Whether you’re a fitness-focused kayaker or an angler scouting new fishing spots, having this information at your fingertips enhances the entire experience.
This roundup covers a range of solutions, from dedicated GPS devices and smartwatches to the crucial mounting hardware that keeps your gear secure. We have selected products that offer reliability, ease of use, and the specific features kayakers need most. From open-water navigation to simple speed tracking, one of these options will be the perfect co-pilot for your next paddle.
Top Apps and Gear for Tracking Kayak Routes
- FeelFree UniTrack Aluminum Kayak Adapter
- YakAttack TracPak with PicPocket QuickDraw
- Huntury Kayak Mounting System
- Kayak Track Mount Vertical Tie Downs
- Pmsanzay Kayak Track Mount Bungee Deck Loop
- Garmin fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar Smartwatch
- Garmin eTrex SE GPS Handheld Navigator
- Garmin inReach Mini 2
- Garmin GPSMAP 86i
FeelFree UniTrack Aluminum Kayak Adapter
This adapter plate is a simple yet vital component for kayakers using FeelFree, Johnny Boats, Seastream, or 3 Waters kayaks. It creates compatibility between your existing kayak track and a wide range of accessories that use a standard 1/2″ wide head T-bolt. This means you are not limited to proprietary parts, giving you the freedom to customize your setup with gear from various manufacturers.
Installation requires no tools, making it a user-friendly solution for on-the-go adjustments. You simply insert the adapter plate, add the included O-ring, and connect your chosen accessory. The design allows you to easily control the sliding speed and tightness of the mounted gear, providing a secure hold that can still be moved when needed.
YakAttack TracPak with PicPocket QuickDraw
For the kayak angler who needs organized and immediate access to tackle and tools, the YakAttack TracPak is an excellent storage solution. Its standout feature is the spring-loaded PicPocket QuickDraw lid, which pops open automatically for fast, one-handed access. This keeps your essentials secure from the elements while making them available in an instant, so you never miss a moment on the water.
The TracPak offers versatile mounting options, optimized for both vertical use on systems like the BlackPak Pro or horizontal placement on standard gear tracks. It comes ready to install with a Quick Release Base and all necessary hardware for track or surface mounting, ensuring a solid and reliable attachment to your kayak’s deck.
Huntury Kayak Mounting System
If your kayak lacks built-in tracks or you need more mounting locations, the Huntury Kayak Mounting System is a fundamental upgrade. This pack includes low-profile tracks that provide the foundation for organizing your deck space exactly how you want it. It is an essential addition for any kayak angler or gear-heavy paddler looking to add rod holders, cup holders, anchor cleats, and more.
The tracks are designed to be compatible with a wide array of standard track-mounted accessories. At 7.8 inches long, each track offers ample room to position multiple items simultaneously, giving you the flexibility to create a customized and functional kayaking setup tailored to your specific activities.
Kayak Track Mount Vertical Tie Downs
These vertical tie-downs are a simple and effective way to add secure anchor points to your kayak’s track system. Their primary function is to prevent your valuable fishing accessories or other gear from being lost overboard, providing a reliable attachment point for leashes and tethers. They also serve a dual purpose by assisting in securing your kayak to a car roof rack.
Designed with a 1/2″ wide T-bolt head, they are compatible with most kayak gear tracks and some truck bed tonneau covers. The tie downs are engineered to work with 1-inch and 1.5-inch flat webbing, as well as cam buckle straps, bungee cords, and ratchet straps, making them a highly versatile piece of hardware for both on and off the water.
Pmsanzay Kayak Track Mount Bungee Deck Loop
For a secure deck rigging solution that requires no drilling, this set of four stainless steel loops is an excellent choice. They provide sturdy anchor points for bungee cords or ropes to hold down dry bags, gear boxes, or other equipment on your kayak or canoe. The rust-resistant 316 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance in a marine environment.
Each loop features a low-profile design and includes rail mounting hardware. With a center-to-center hole distance of approximately 2 inches, they can accept webbing up to 30mm wide, offering a strong and reliable hold for all your essential gear during transit or while on the water.
Garmin fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar Smartwatch
The Garmin fēnix 7S Pro is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch built for adventurers. It is an ideal tool for kayakers who want to track their route, speed, distance, and stroke count directly from their wrist. The scratch-resistant Power Sapphire lens with solar charging extends battery life significantly, which is crucial for long paddling trips where outlets are unavailable.
Beyond kayaking metrics, this watch includes a built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities, providing greater awareness during early morning or late evening sessions. Its robust construction and extensive sport profiles make it a comprehensive fitness and navigation companion for any outdoor activity.
Garmin eTrex SE GPS Handheld Navigator
The Garmin eTrex SE is a straightforward and reliable handheld GPS navigator perfect for marking waypoints and tracking your kayak route on larger bodies of water. Its high-resolution 2.2-inch display is sunlight-readable, ensuring you can view your position and map clearly even on the brightest days. With support for multiple global navigation satellite systems (Multi-GNSS), it acquires your location quickly and maintains a strong signal.
This device offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 168 hours in standard mode on two AA batteries. You can also pair it with the Garmin Explore app on your smartphone for seamless trip planning, wireless updates, and access to Active Weather forecasts.
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact, rugged satellite communicator that no serious kayaker should be without on remote journeys. While it tracks and shares your location, its most critical function is two-way text messaging via the global Iridium satellite network, even when you have no cell phone service. This allows you to stay in contact with your group or call for help in an emergency.
Beyond communication, it provides basic navigation and can pair with your smartphone for a better mapping experience. For kayakers venturing far from shore or into isolated areas, the inReach Mini 2 provides an essential layer of safety and peace of mind.
Garmin GPSMAP 86i
The Garmin GPSMAP 86i is a top-tier marine handheld that combines a high-sensitivity GPS and GNSS receiver with built-in inReach satellite technology. It features a large, color display that is easy to read in all conditions and preloaded maps for both land and coastal navigation. This makes it an excellent all-in-one unit for tracking detailed kayak routes and speed over water.
Like the inReach Mini 2, it includes interactive SOS alerting and two-way messaging via the Iridium network. Its robust, buoyant design is built to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring it stays afloat and operational if dropped overboard. This device is for the kayaker who demands the highest level of navigation and safety features.
What to Look For in an App for Tracking Kayak Routes and Speed
When I’m looking for an app to track my kayak routes and speed, my phone is my most important piece of gear after my PFD. I need an app that’s reliable, easy to use with wet hands, and provides the data I care about. Over the years, I’ve figured out there are a few key things that separate a great paddling app from a mediocre one.
First and foremost, I need to know the app will work even when I have a poor or non-existent cell signal. This is non-negotiable for safety and basic functionality. I always look for apps that offer downloadable maps for offline use. Being able to pre-load the map of the lake or coastline I’m paddling means I can track my entire journey without using any data or worrying about losing my route if my service drops. The GPS in your phone works independently of cell service, but the map visuals won’t show up without that pre-downloaded data.
Next, I consider the battery life impact. GPS tracking is a notorious battery hog. I look for apps that are optimized to be efficient, but I also plan for the worst. My real-world solution is always carrying a waterproof external battery pack. It’s a lifesaver on long trips. Some apps have settings to reduce the frequency of location pings to save power, which is a feature I always check for.
The type of data tracked is also a big deal for me. Basic speed and distance are a given, but I really appreciate when an app gives me more. I look for average speed, max speed, a moving time vs. stopped time counter, and total trip duration. Some advanced apps even track metrics like pace per mile, which is great for training. Seeing my route painted on a map post-paddle is incredibly satisfying and helps me learn the waterways.
Finally, I think about the user interface. Is the start/stop recording button big and easy to press? Can I see my current speed at a glance without squinting at the screen in the sun? Is it easy to review my past trips? I avoid apps that are overly complicated. When I’m on the water, I want to focus on paddling, not on fiddling with my phone. The best apps are simple to operate but powerful in the background, giving me a detailed log of my adventure without getting in the way of it.
FAQ
How accurate are these kayak tracking apps?
In my experience, the accuracy is generally very good for recreational purposes. They use your phone’s GPS, which is typically accurate to within 5 to 10 meters. Your speed reading is calculated based on how quickly you’re moving between these GPS points. Factors like heavy tree cover on a river or paddling next to a tall canyon wall can sometimes cause minor signal drift, but for tracking your overall route, average speed, and distance, I find them to be perfectly reliable. They are certainly accurate enough to give you a great record of your trip.
Will using a tracking app drain my phone battery quickly?
Yes, it definitely can. Continuously using GPS is one of the most power-intensive things your phone can do. On a long paddle, you might see your battery life drop significantly. My advice is to start with a full charge, lower your screen brightness, close all other apps, and consider putting your phone in airplane mode (GPS still works in airplane mode). The best precaution, however, is to bring a waterproof external battery pack. This has saved me more than once and lets me track all-day trips without worry.
Can I use these apps without a cell phone signal?
Absolutely, and this is a critical feature. Your phone’s GPS receiver works independently of any cellular or data connection. To see your position on a map while offline, you just need to download the map area for your route in advance while you’re on Wi-Fi. Most dedicated fitness and mapping apps, like Gaia GPS or OsmAnd, have this feature. I always download my maps before I head out; it’s a simple step that makes the app fully functional no matter how remote I get.
What is the best free app for tracking kayak routes and speed?
This is a common question, and my go-to recommendation is Strava. It’s primarily known for cycling and running, but its “Water Sport” activity type works perfectly for kayaking. It tracks your route, speed, distance, and elevation gain (minimal for kayaking, but it’s there). The free version is very robust, and the social features can be fun if you have friends who also paddle. Another excellent free option is Google Fit, which is simple and gets the job done if you just want basic stats.
Are there any apps that also show water depth or tides?
Yes, several apps integrate this kind of marine data. For coastal kayaking, I use an app like Navionics. It’s primarily a boating app, but it shows detailed nautical charts, water depths, buoys, and most importantly, tide and current information. Knowing the tide schedule is crucial for planning a safe coastal paddle. For inland lakes and rivers, depth information is less common on consumer apps, but the vector maps on an app like OsmAnd can sometimes show river width and general water features.