Kayak Scupper Plugs: What Are They? Do You Need Them?

If you’re a kayaker, then you know that water can come in through the scupper holes, so you need scupper plugs to keep too much water from coming in and sinking your kayak.

That’s why it’s important to have kayak scupper plugs with you on your next kayaking trip.

In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about kayak plugs, including what they are, how to use them, and why they’re so important.

What Are Kayak Scupper Plugs?

Kayak scupper plugs are simply plugs that fit into the scupper holes of your kayak to help to keep water from coming into your kayak and sinking it.

They’re usually made of rubber or foam and come in different sizes to fit different kayaks.

Are Scupper Plugs Necessary?

So, do kayaks need scupper plugs?

Yes, kayak scupper plugs are necessary if your kayak has scupper holes because they prevent your kayak from filling up with water and sinking.

Some kayaks have scupper holes in them, which allow water to drain off the deck when the kayak is at a standstill, which is common for sit-on-top kayaks.

If you’ve got a sit-on-top kayak or a kayak with scupper holes, then kayak plugs are going to be especially important in rough waters when waves can come crashing into your kayak and fill it up with water.

They’re also good for kayaking in cold weather, as it’ll keep the cold water from coming into your kayak’s deck.

So, if you’re planning on kayaking in rough waters, rapids, or whitewater, be sure to bring along some kayak scupper plugs.

How to Use Scupper Plugs

To use kayak scupper plugs, simply insert them into the scupper holes of your kayak.

Make sure that they are tight and snug so that no water can get through.

You may need to experiment with different sizes and types of plugs to find what works best for your kayak.

Scupper Plugs Vs Kayak Plugs

These two terms are the same thing. Because the holes in your kayak are called scupper holes, then the plugs you insert into the holes are called scupper plugs.

Some folks use the term kayak plugs instead, but there’s no difference in the meaning.

DIY Scupper Plugs

Creating homemade scupper plugs is easy and also a great way to get a custom-fit kayak plug for your yak.

The solution we like best is golf ball scupper plugs. Follow these steps:

• Start by gathering some foam practice golf balls, paracord, and a pack of metal washers.
• Drill a hole through the center of each foam golf ball.
• Thread the paracord through the hole you drilled in the previous step.
• Slide a metal washer under through one end of the paracord and tie a knot at that end. That washer will help to keep the knot from sliding out of the homemade kayak plug.
• Tie another knot on the opposite side, then leave some additional length of paracord so you have something to pull on when inserting and removing your homemade scupper plugs.

You can also swap out the golf balls in these instructions for rubber stoppers, but make sure to measure your kayak’s scupper holes and get the right size rubber stoppers.

Check out this video showing how to make golf ball scupper plugs quickly and easily:

Kayak Scupper Valves

A great alternative to kayak scupper plugs is scupper valves.

These are essentially one-way plugs that allow water that splashes into a kayak to drain out of the scupper holes while keeping stopping water from splashing up through those same holes, which is very convenient.

Not all kayak models are compatible with scupper valves, so you’ll need to check your make and model to see what’s available.

The Best Scupper Plugs

So what kayak scupper plugs are the best? The short answer is, they are the ones that fit your kayak’s scupper holes properly and keep water out!

Now there are some models that are more reliable and popular than others, which we’ve rounded up for you in our top picks below. Read on to learn more.

Essential Marine Products Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit

First up is the Essential Marine Products Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit.

These plugs fit 3/4″-1.5″ scupper holes and work with most popular kayak brands like Hobie, Native, Wilderness Systems, Perception, Old Town, Feelfree, and more.

So bottom line here is that if you’re looking for Lifetime kayak scupper plugs or Old Town scupper plugs, these are a great bet since they’re a universal fit.

They’re made of durable rubber and are easy to insert and remove when you need to.

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable scupper plug kit, then this is the one for you.

Harmony Gear Gray Kayak Plugs

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If you’re in the market for a set of durable and affordable kayak plugs, then check out the Harmony Gear Gray Kayak Plugs.

These plugs fit scupper holes that are between 1″ and 1-3/8″ in diameter.

They’re made to fit all Wilderness Systems kayaks and come in a pack of four.

Ocean Kayak Scupper Stoppers

And last but not least are the Ocean Kayak Scupper Stoppers.

These plugs come in four different sizes and are sold in packs of two, so you’re sure to get the right fit and quantity that you need.

They’re made of durable soft rubber that’s comfortable, so you don’t have to worry about using them under your seat (or anywhere else!).

The multi-ribbed design makes for a tighter seal, keeping you dry and comfortable on your kayaking trips.

Wrapping Up Our Guide To Kayak Scupper Plugs

We hope you enjoyed our guide to kayak plugs.

As you can see, there are a variety of options available to you, so be sure to do your research and find the right set of plugs for your kayak.

Which scupper plugs did you choose, and what kind of kayak do you have? Let us know in the comments below.

Check out our other helpful kayaking guides while you’re here:

• Sit in vs sit on top kayaks – which is better?
• Our reviews of the best 2 person fishing kayaks
• The best kayak cup holders