Missing Kayak??

[KayakinKid]

VitaBene and Rattlesnake Guy offer good suggestions for marking. If you go the permanent marker route, mark it at least twice. Once in a visible spot, and the other in a not so visible spot. If your kayak goes missing, the visible one makes it easy to get the kayak back to you. If it's stolen, they might erase the first one, but probably won't think to look for another one. Mark it on the underside of the kayak deck either in the front or the back. On a lighter colored kayak, the permanent marker might show through, so a small waterproof bag with your contact information inside, and taped to the underside of the deck would work as well.

If you have carry handles on your kayak, mark your initials on the underside of the carry handles. If you use foam floatation for buoyancy, slice a small slit into it, and put a laminated card with your contact information in it.

I'm sure that there are other creative ways of marking one's kayak or canoe.

If you're out and about, and plan on leaving your kayak unattended for some time, whether it be at a campground, on your vehicle or elsewhere, a Lash-Lock might also be a good idea.

[rick35]

We bought two Pungos a few week ago and the serial numbers are etched into the plastic at the stern. Its hard to see unless you know where to look for it. That would help to prove that it is mine if stolen and if i was fortunate enough that it is found. Too many ifs and if someone steals them i dont think i'll ever see them again. But im going to put my name on them in the event they end up missing. I'm thinking of a waterproof tag that i can attach to the back of the seat.

[kdcpc]

Hi everyone, thanks so much for keeping an eye out for our kayak. I was unable to view the picture of the kayak, so If you wouldn't mind emailing me at kranney33@gmail.com, so I can see them. I've already purchased a replacement because it was my parents but I'd love to get it back. I'll also call the marine patrol.
I hope this is it.....

[Rattlesnake Guy]

Originally Posted by rick35

We bought two Pungos a few week ago and the serial numbers are etched into the plastic at the stern. Its hard to see unless you know where to look for it. That would help to prove that it is mine if stolen and if i was fortunate enough that it is found. Too many ifs and if someone steals them i dont think i'll ever see them again. But im going to put my name on them in the event they end up missing. I'm thinking of a waterproof tag that i can attach to the back of the seat.

The salesman we spoke with said that a savvy theif will melt away the serial number. That is why the more subtle marking or defect that helps you prove your ownership might come in handy when you see your Kayak on the roof of a car at the 93 liquor store. Unfortunatly, serial numbers are only for honest people.

[rick35]

Originally Posted by Rattlesnake Guy

Unfortunatly, serial numbers are only for honest people.

As are locks. Had a boat trailer stolen at a boat launch while i was on the lake. Thief cut through the lock and it away it went never to be seen again.

[RANGER CANOE CO]

Originally Posted by Rattlesnake Guy

The salesman we spoke with said that a savvy theft will melt away the serial number. That is why the more subtle marking or defect that helps you prove your ownership might come in handy when you see your Kayak on the roof of a car at the 93 liquor store. Unfortunately, serial numbers are only for honest people.

Actually, all boat manufactures like myself are required by the Coast Guard to have 2 hull identification # 's on any vessel when built. One on the outside, but there is a duplicate hidden # somewhere else. In case the outside one is been tampered with by theft. So, keep your sales slip, it will have the serial # on it.