Unlock the Full Potential of Your Kayak with These Amazing Hatch Cover Tips and Tricks!

Owning a kayak with hatch covers is a great way to keep your gear dry and protected while on the water. However, it's important to make sure that the hatch covers are properly fastened and secured before each trip. I learned this lesson the hard way when I lost some expensive locking straps due to an improperly secured hatch cover.

It's also a good idea to check on the condition of your hatch covers regularly and replace them if they become worn out or damaged. Hatch covers not only keep water out of the storage compartments, but they also help to prevent flooding. So if you notice any issues with your hatch covers, don't hesitate to get a replacement.

While they may not be as common on fishing kayaks, hatch covers can also be found on more high-end models. They play a vital role in ensuring that the compartments they cover are watertight, making them an essential component of your kayak.

It's important to prioritize the safety and functionality of your kayak, and replacing damaged or worn out hatch covers is a key part of that. By choosing a high-quality replacement hatch cover, you can ensure that your storage compartments stay dry and your gear stays protected.

There are many options available when it comes to choosing a new hatch cover, and we've compiled a list of 15 different options for you to consider. Whether you're looking for a basic rubber cover or a more advanced model with additional features, there's sure to be a hatch cover that meets your needs. Take the time to research and compare different options to find the perfect fit for your kayak.

Tips

Even though you could discover specific hatch covers touted as universal, you will still need to investigate to ensure that you get the appropriate one for your kayak. Therefore, to assist you match your kayak with a proper hatch cover, here are a few crucial elements to consider.

Measurement

It's important to accurately measure the size and shape of your hatch well before purchasing a new hatch cover. This will ensure that you get a cover that fits properly and seals effectively. To measure your hatch well, you will need to use a tape measure or ruler to determine the length, width, and depth of the opening. It's a good idea to measure in a few different places around the well to get an accurate reading.

Once you have your measurements, be sure to compare them to the dimensions of the hatch cover you are considering. It's important to choose a cover that is the same size or slightly larger than the well to ensure a proper fit. If the cover is too small, it may not seal properly and may allow water or debris to enter the storage compartment. On the other hand, if the cover is too large, it may be difficult to install and may not stay in place as effectively.

It's also important to consider the shape of the hatch well when choosing a cover. Some covers are designed to fit specific types of hatch wells, such as round or oval-shaped openings, while others are more versatile and can be used on a variety of shapes. Make sure to choose a cover that is compatible with the shape of your hatch well for the best fit and performance.

Taking The Form Of A Hatch

Hatch covers come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different types of hatch wells. The most common shape for hatch covers is a rectangular or square shape, which is designed to fit rectangular or square hatch wells. These covers are generally the most versatile and can be used on a wide range of kayaks.

There are also hatch covers available in round or oval shapes to fit circular or oval-shaped hatch wells. These covers are typically used on sit-in kayaks, where the hatch well is located in the center of the kayak. Round and oval hatch covers may be more specialized and may not be as widely available as rectangular or square covers.

In addition to the shape of the cover, it's also important to consider the size of the cover and the size of the hatch well. As mentioned earlier, it's important to choose a cover that is the same size or slightly larger than the hatch well to ensure a proper fit. If the cover is too small, it may not seal effectively, and if it is too large, it may be difficult to install and stay in place.

Overall, it's important to choose a hatch cover that is the right shape and size for your hatch well to ensure a proper fit and effective sealing.

Installation Prerequisites

Before installing a new hatch cover on your kayak, there are a few important things to consider to ensure a successful installation. These include:

1. Clean the area around the hatch well: Make sure the area around the hatch well is clean and dry before installing the cover. This will help to ensure that the cover seals properly and does not become damaged due to dirt or debris.
2. Measure the hatch well: As mentioned earlier, it's important to accurately measure the size and shape of the hatch well to ensure that you choose a cover that fits properly. Measure the length, width, and depth of the well in a few different places to get an accurate reading.
3. Choose the right cover: Once you have your measurements, choose a hatch cover that is the same size or slightly larger than the hatch well. It's also important to consider the shape of the well and choose a cover that is compatible with it.
4. Gather any necessary tools or materials: Some hatch covers may require additional tools or materials to install, such as clips or straps. Make sure you have everything you need before starting the installation process.

The nuts and washers now holding the bolts in place may be removed and replaced with relative ease; however, you must take care not to misplace them. Water cannot enter the hatch through the bolt holes in the cockpit due to the nuts and washers.

The world of rivets takes on an entirely new meaning. The old kayak deck plate must be drilled out in most cases. You will need a rivet tool to attach the new ones (although you may also opt to use bolts, waterproof washers, and nuts instead).

Cost Estimates

As hatch covers are available in a limited range of sizes and designs, you'll find hatch covers are nearly identical from different manufacturers. You will be able to start looking for deals on hatch covers once you have determined the size and form of the body you require for your hatch.

The hatch covers should not make you rub your eyes or blink twice if you think something else is appearing before your eyes. All models are the same, but you can get them for different prices.

Look around for a kayak hatch cover that won't break the bank, so you can retain some cash for further kayak gear purchases.

Reviews Of Kayak Covers And Canoe For The Hatches

1. Alomejor Access Kayak Hatch Cover 

Alomejor Access Kayak Hatch Cover dimensions are as follows:

• Alomejor Access Kayak Hatch Cover is 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• Alomejor Access Kayak Hatch Cover is in the form of an oval.
• The Alomejor Access Kayak Hatch Cover weighs a total of 21.94 ounces.

The ideal replacement for kayaks with oval-shaped hatches is the first hatch cover on our list, which is an excellent replacement overall. Alomejor Access kayak hatch cover is constructed using a long-lasting plastic substance resistant to impact, water, and corrosion.

You can easily cover kayaks without oval hatch covers with Alomejor Access kayak hatch covers since they have a little tab with a hole attached to one side. If you pass a string through the spot you've created, you'll be able to secure the series to the container after the hatch is attached. When the hatch is removed, the hatch will not fall into the water.  

2. HuthBrother Round Hatch Cover

• HuthBrother round hatch cover measurements come in a diameter of 9 inches and a height of 1.18 inches.
• HuthBrother round hatch cover shape is round.
• HuthBrother round hatch cover weighs 7.05.

HuthBrother round hatch cover has an outer diameter of nine inches and an internal diameter of 7.5 inches, making the HuthBrother round hatch compatible with hatches of those dimensions. Although the HuthBrother round hatch cover was designed to fit just Valley Sea Kayaks, the HuthBrother round hatch cover is compatible with any kayak with a hatch whose dimensions closely match those specified by the product.

Regarding expedition-style kayaking, the HuthBrother round hatch cover is an excellent hatch since they are not only quite sturdy but also completely waterproof and straightforward to remove if you need access to any of the camping equipment you packed for an overnight journey.

3. VGEBY Kayak Deck Hatch Cover

• The VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover dimensions are 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover in the form of an oval.
• The VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover weighs a total of 21.94 ounces.

The VGEBY hatch cover is comparable to the Alomejor type we discussed before; however, the VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover is available at a more reasonable price. VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover is constructed from a rubberized plastic substance and has the same proportions as its predecessor.

VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover resulted in excellent waterproofing and facilitated both installation and removal without difficulty. The VGEBY kayak deck hatch cover resists corrosion and has substantial impact resistance, so you can confidently replace the hatch cover on your kayak.

4. Dalaman Deck Hatch Cover

• The Dalaman deck hatch cover dimensions are 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• Dalaman deck hatch cover in the form of an oval.
• The Dalaman deck hatch cover weighs a total of 21.94 ounces.

Are you beginning to recognize a trend here? Because only a limited number of kayak hatch sizes are available, you will discover that the proportions of many of these models are similar.

The Dalaman is noteworthy because Dalaman shares the same design as the Alomejor and VGEBY hatches but can be purchased for half the price. Dalaman deck hatch cover has the potential to save you a tiny bit of money if the Dalaman cover is the right size for the oval hatch that is located in your kayak.

5. Felenny Deck Hatch Cover

• The Felenny deck hatch cover dimensions are 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• Felenny deck hatch cover in the form of an oval.
• The Felenny deck hatch cover weighs a total of 21.94 ounces.

The Felenny Deck Hatch Cover is another design that functions comparably and is suitable for oval hatches measuring more than 17 inches slightly in length. Felenny Deck Hatch Cover is designed to be impact-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and waterproof, much like the other oval hatch covers we've discussed.

Felenny Deck Hatch Cover may be attached to the string already installed in your bulkhead through a security pinhole, provided that you still have the line installed. Felenny Deck Hatch Cover is only possible if you still have the series. If you have lost one of these safety strings, you must buy another one individually.

6. Ocean Kayak Round Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit

• The Felenny Deck Hatch Cover diameter of 8.5 inches, and a height of 1.25 inches
• Felenny Deck Hatch Cover shape is round.
• Felenny Deck Hatch Cover weight Twenty-two ounces 

The spherical Gaspachi kit is an all-inclusive replacement option for the hatch found on several Ocean Kayak models. The Malibu Two, Malibu Two XL, Scrambler, and Cabo kayak models are all compatible with these accessories.

A jigsaw and a router will be necessary for you to finish the installation of this new hatch cover. If you have all the essential tools on hand, you can replace the hatch entirely with this kit, which has all the necessary hardware.

Rivets and a gear strap are included in the accompanying hardware package. Hooks and a gear strap also come with instructions that are simple to follow and will assist you in finishing the installation.

The durable rubber hatch cover is entirely waterproof once adequately installed, so you can be confident that your belongings in the circular bulkhead compartment are safe.

7. Terror Deck Hatch Cover

• The Terror Deck Hatch Cover dimensions are 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• Terror Deck Hatch Cover in the form of an oval.
• The Terror Deck Hatch Cover weighs a total of 21.94 ounces.

The Terror deck hatch cover is yet another reasonably priced option designed to suit oval kayak hatches around 17 inches in length. Terror Deck Hatch Cover is crafted from the same long-lasting plastic material as the covers described above in the first two paragraphs.

Terror Deck Hatch Cover is equally simple to put in place, and Terror Deck Hatch Cover comes with a security aperture that allows you to tie a string to the interior of your bulkhead. In addition, Terror Deck Hatch Cover is resistant to rust, impacts, and water, and terror Deck Hatch Covers are all impressive qualities.

8. Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit

• The Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit measurements are as follows: 17.25 inches in length, 10.5 inches in width, and 1.25 inches in height.
• The Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit form is oval.
• 15.84 ounces is how much weight something has.

Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit is the oblong form of the Gaspachi hatch kit; if you have an Ocean Kayak and are seeking a replacement kit for the complete oval hatch, this is the one you want. Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit is compatible with Ocean Kayak manufacturers with the Scrambler XT, Sprinter, Malibu Two XL, and Zest Two EXP kayak models.

Ocean kayak has a smaller hatch diameter when viewed from the interior, as seen in its specifications. Ocean kayak is necessary to remember because it indicates that the hatch is more prominent on the body than on the interior. Ocean kayak is 9.375 inches broad and 16.5 inches long when measured along the interior margins.

The installation method for the ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit cover is also a bit more complicated than the one described in the previous section. However, Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit does come with all the gear required to install it correctly, so there is no need to worry about that.

Ocean Kayak Oval Gaspachi Kayak Hatch Kit consists of four rivets, one strap eye, two washers, a strap with a buckle, and the hatch cover with the leash itself. The hatch cover also has easy-to-understand installation instructions that will allow you to complete this as a DIY project.

9. SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover

• The SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover dimensions are 17.5 inches in length, 10.2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• The SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover form is oval.
• The SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover weighs 21.94 ounces.

SH-RuiDu offers this waterproof oval hatch cover. SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover is the same as those provided by Alomejor, Felenny, and Terror, which can be found further up the page. Surprisingly, the SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover price tag places its smack dab in the middle of the spectrum, spanning the various manufacturers' most costly and least expensive versions.

Suppose you passed up the most excellent qualities of the others. In that case, SH-RuiDu Waterproof Oval Hatch Cover is incredibly durable and resistant to corrosion, impact, and water, and SH-RuiDu is also waterproof. In addition, SH-RuiDu is simple to set up and can be taken down in less than a minute.

10. Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover

• Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover measurements are as follows: diameter of 8 inches and a height of 1.38 inches
• Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover form is round or circular
• Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover weight is 7.37 ounces 

The diameter of the interior of this hatch cover is six inches, which is the optimum measurement to use when trying to match the Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover to the diameter of the round hatch on your kayak. The six-inch designation in the name of Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover refers to its inner diameter. Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover is fabricated from a plastic material that is resistant to the deterioration caused by UV rays and will ensure that your hatch has a watertight seal.

Alomejor 6-Inch Round Hatch Cover is pretty simple to install and remove and is robust enough to ensure that the hatch will remain secure for many years. Because diameter measurements are taken manually, the manufacturer states that you should account for a measurement error of up to one inch.

11. SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber

• The SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber dimensions are as follows: 24 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 1 inch in height.
• SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber shape is square
• SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber weight is 5.75.

If you have been looking for a square hatch cover, I am sorry that you have had to wait this long to discover the first item that we have included on our list. SEAFLO hatch and lid are meant to be an all-in-one replacement option for hatches, and it comes with a guarantee that is good for four years.

Because SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber is constructed out of a plastic substance known as ABS, which is resistant to the effects of UV radiation, SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber is designed to survive for many years. If you are in the process of replacing a hatch cover in your stand-up fishing kayak, the fact that the top of the lid features anti-slip capabilities can be a beneficial feature.

The installation process for this hatch and lid solution is, in all honesty, more complex than the procedures required for some of the other available choices. SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber comes with pre-drilled and countersunk fastening holes, but you must purchase screws or bolts separately if you want to use them. In addition, SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber has a substantial rubber seal that wraps around the bottom of the rim, ensuring that SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber is utterly impervious to the elements. After it has been fitted, you may open the lid to 180 degrees to offer convenient access to the compartment.

When the lid is closed, the top provides a flush finish by completely covering the mounting flange. Lig has two sturdy handles recessed into the product, making it simple to open and close the lid.

Please note that the dimensions provided above pertain to the circumference of the hatch's outside borders. The flush design means that it will only protrude over the deck of your kayak by 0.7 inches once it has been installed, and the interior clearance measures 20.6 inches in length and 11 inches in width. Once SEAFLO Marine Deck Access Hatch & Lid Rubber has been established, the dimensions are as follows.

12. SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover

• SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover has three sizes available, with a diameter of four inches, six inches, and eight inches, respectively.
• SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover form is round or circular

SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover is one of the replacement alternatives for complete, round kayak hatches that is the most cost-effective currently available. There are three sizes available, and the diameters listed for each one roughly reflect the size of the hatch once opened.

SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover is meant to replace your current installed hatch in your kayak, and its primary goal is to act as a replacement for the hatch. SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover is most suitable for those who have either misplaced or damaged the lid of the recessed spherical hatch covers in their kayaks.

A thermoplastic ABS material resistant to UV light is used in its construction, and the top of the container has been strengthened to ensure that it will remain in use for many years. You won't have to worry about delicate goods sliding all over the lid since it has a non-skid coating, which allows you to set down even the tiniest of things without worrying about them moving.

SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover comes with six mounting holes already drilled into SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover. However, remove the old hatch from your vehicle; you should be cautious to keep all the additional hardware from the original hatch covers. If SEAFLO Black Circular Hatch with Detachable Cover is not the case, you will need to purchase new nuts, washers, and bolts to finish the installation.

13. Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag 

• The Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag dimensions are as follows: diameter of 8 inches and a height of 2.1 inches.
• Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag form is round or circular.
• Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag weight is 1.2.

If you require a complete replacement for the deck plate and hatch cover on an eight-inch kayak hatch, Anndason's model features a built-in storage bag to keep your smaller belongings secure and make them more easily accessible.

Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag turns out that the deck plate has an outer diameter of 10.2 inches, and to install this solution, you will need to use either bolts or screws. Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag is constructed using high-quality ABS material throughout the manufacturing process, resulting in a sturdy product that will endure for a very long time.

In addition, the accessory comes with an EVA gasket specifically designed to protect the deck of your kayak from any potential harm that the process of installing the attachment may cause. In addition, Anndason 8" Black Deck Hatch With Storage Bag comes with a recessed handle that can be turned, providing easy opening and closing after installation.

14. Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit With Storage Bag

• The Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit With Storage Bag dimensions of this item are as follows: 20 inches in length, 11.875 inches in width, and 1.875 inches in height.
• Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit With Storage Bag form is oval.
• Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit With Storage Bag weight is 2.69.

Check out this 20-inch hatch kit from Pactrade marine kayak hatch cover if you are searching for a hard plastic hatch kit to replace the oval hatch in your touring kayak. This kit is perfect for replacing the oval hatch. Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit With Storage Bag is made of plastic resistant to UV rays and has a surface that is textured in a circular pattern giving the kit a neat appearance while being strong enough to withstand extended exposure to sunlight.

The exact dimensions of Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit inside aperture are 16.75 inches long and 8 inches broad, and the storage bag's depth ranges from 11 to 12 inches. Although when Pactrade Marine 20" Hatch Kit is closed with the recessed handles, the lid of the storage bag is entirely impermeable, the bag itself is not completely waterproof.

15. FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch With Cat Bag

• The FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch With Cat Bag dimensions are as follows: diameter of 6 inches and a height of 2.2 inches
• FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch With Cat Bag form is round or circular
• FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch With Cat Bag weight is 13.44 ounces.

The FOR SUN deck hatch is designed to fit hatch holes that are six inches in diameter, and FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch comes with a storage bag that has a depth of twelve inches. FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch not only comes with the eight screws you'll need to put in your kayak covers, but FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch also contains holes pre-drilled to save you some time.

FORSUN 6" Deck Hatch With Cat Bag is possible to remove the storage bag, either to clean it entirely or if you choose that you do not require it. Additionally, plastic is used to construct this hatch cover, guaranteeing its long-term durability.

A Few Final Thoughts

There is no valid excuse for putting off repairing your kayak's hatch covers if they are damaged or missing. In addition, you should think about changing them even if they seem in good form, but you still find water in the compartments of your bulkheads. Moisture may cause corrosion and rust, leading to severe problems.

The difference between a pleasant overnight kayak expedition and one where you wind up sleeping in a wet sleeping bag may often be this area. Also, kayak hatch covers are not even the cheapest kayaking equipment you could buy. When everything is said and done, the expenditure will be worthwhile to protect the stuff stored within your compartments. We hope that the advice and reviews of hatch covers we provided in this article were helpful to you.

Therefore, a hatch cover is a clever idea from a practical standpoint and a necessary safety precaution to swap out the kayak hatch covers on your kayak. You are in luck since we have compiled a list of fifteen distinct options for you to choose from to find the product that is a suitable replacement for your outdated kayak hatch covers.

As usual, we send our best wishes for a fun and safe time on all of your future kayaking adventures!