Killer Kayaks!

Bungs is a funny term, isn’t it? If you’re wonder what bungs are and why kayaks have them, I can explain that to you.

And no, no matter how much the term reminds you of the Beavis and Buttheads bunghole jokes, this is an entirely different matter.

So, WTFudge Are Bungs?!

For those new to kayaking, the term “bung” might sound like a foreign word but it’s actually an important feature found on most kayaks.

A bung is a type of drain plug that’s designed to help you remove water from the kayak easily. It’s a God send!

Why Do Kayaks Have Bungs?

Some kayaks have small drain holes along the edges or the bottom, which can allow water to drain out gradually.

However, if you’ve capsized or taken on a significant amount of water, a bung can make all the difference in quickly removing the excess water. Removing the water helps to reduce the overall weight of the kayak and can make paddling much easier.

Think of it as a quick way to dump a crazy excess of water like in an emergency situation.

How Many Types of Bungs Are There?

There are several different types of bungs found on kayaks including threaded, pop-up, and twist and lock bungs.

#1. Threaded Bungs

Threaded bungs require you to screw them in manually and are typically found in kayaks that are designed primarily for touring purposes.

Threaded bungs are usually made from a strong, durable material such as metal or plastic that is resistant to corrosion. They’re also typically located near the stern of the kayak.

#2. Pop-up Bungs

Pop-up bungs are designed to pop open when pressure is applied from inside the kayak and can be closed manually once water has been released. They’re usually made from a flexible material such as rubber or plastic and are often located near the bow of the kayak.

Pop-up bungs are a great choice for recreational kayaks as they’re easy to use and require minimal effort from the paddler.

#3. Twist and Lock Bungs

Twist and lock bungs are designed to twist open when pressure is applied from inside the kayak, then twist back shut after the water has been released. They are usually made from a strong, durable material such as metal or plastic and can often be found near the stern of the kayak.

Twist and lock bungs offer more security than other types of bungs as they don’t require any manual effort to open or close them.

How Do You Maintain a Bung?

As with any gear, it’s essential to maintain your bungs properly to keep them working effectively.

Inspect your bungs regularly for any cracks or damage and replace them if necessary. If you’re planning on storing your kayak for an extended period, you’ll need to remove your bung and ensure that it’s fully dry before storing it away.

Salt buildup can also affect the performance of your bungs, so it’s a good idea to rinse your kayak down after every use.

What are the Benefits of Bungs?

Not only do bungs help remove water from your kayak quickly, but they can also provide ventilation and air circulation inside the kayak. This can help to prevent any mold or mildew buildup, which can be especially important if you’re storing your kayak in a damp environment.

Additionally, bungs can provide a handy access point for inspecting and cleaning your kayak’s interior.

What Do You Do If Your Bungs Isn’t Functioning Properly?

If you’re experiencing any issues with your bungs, it’s important to troubleshoot them before heading out on the water. If you’re finding that your bung isn’t draining effectively, try tilting your kayak in different directions to help the water flow towards the drain hole.

Lastly, you might need to clean any debris or buildup around your bung to ensure that it’s working correctly.

Are Bungs the Same as Scupper Plugs?

No, bungs and scupper plugs are not the same. Scupper plugs are designed to prevent water from entering your kayak while bungs are used to remove excess water that has already entered.

Can You Drown Without Bungs?

Yes, you can drown without bungs although it would take a significant amount of water entering the kayak for that to happen. It’s always important to ensure your bung is properly attached and functioning correctly before heading out on the water.

How Many Bungs Should Be On One Kayak?

The number of bungs on one kayak can vary depending on the design and size of your kayak. Generally, you’ll find two or three bungs attached to a recreational kayak, while touring or sea kayaks may have up to five.

Is It Dangerous to Seal a Bung?

Yes, it can be dangerous to seal a bung as this could result in a build up of pressure and air inside the kayak. Without an available outlet for air to escape, pressure will build up inside the hull which can cause it to crack or even burst. It’s always best practice to keep your bungs open when possible.

Conclusion

Bung plugs are a small but crucial part of any kayaker’s gear. They’re designed to remove water quickly, help with ventilation and air circulation, and provide access to the interior of your kayak. Make sure to familiarize yourself with how they work before going out for a long kayaking session.

Understanding how to maintain your bungs properly and troubleshoot any issues that arise can help to ensure that your kayak stays in excellent condition for years to come.

Fishing has been one of my favorite pastime activities and I know it is for a lot of you too! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just a beginner, the latest technological advancements in fishing equipment are making it easier to catch fish and have more successful fishing trips.

Two of the most popular tools for fishing enthusiasts today are fish finders and side imaging. These devices revolutionize the fishing game by providing more accurate information about what’s happening beneath the surface of the water.

However, the question is, which tool is better for your kayak fishing adventures? What does each one do? It can be confusing to learn about these so in this article, I will discuss what each one does, how each one can help, and then see which one is best suited for your needs. With that said, let’s take a look under the water (pun intended!)

The Differences Between Fish Finders and Side Imaging Devices

Fish Finders are the go-to tool for many anglers because of their simplicity and accuracy. I own three of these and love them for the ease of use of locating fishies!

These electronic devices use sonar technology to locate fish, water depth, and underwater structures and come in various forms. Most fish finders come equipped with a display screen that shows a 2D image of what’s happening beneath the kayak.

With a fish finder, you can quickly and easily determine where fish are located, and then strategically plan your next move. These devices are particularly useful for kayak fishing because they allow you to navigate shallow waters without the risk of damaging your equipment.

On the other hand, side imaging offers a more sophisticated approach to fishing. This advanced technology generates detailed, high-resolution images of the lake or ocean bed, providing anglers with a clearer, three-dimensional view of what is happening beneath the surface.

Side imaging can also reveal underwater vegetation, rocks, and other structures that can help you find fish. However, the downside to side imaging is that it requires more time to learn and operate which may discourage some anglers.

Price Differences Between Fish Finders and Side Image Devices

Another deciding factor for kayak anglers choosing between fish finders and side imaging is the price.

Fish finders tend to be more affordable while side imaging devices come with a hefty price tag. If you’re a beginner who wants to test the waters without breaking the bank, a fish finder is certainly the best option.

However, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality device, side imaging could be the game-changer that takes your fishing to the next level.

The type of fishing you engage in can also determine which technology to use. For shallow water fishing, where the fish are more visible, a fish finder may be sufficient.

But for deep-sea fishing or fishing in large bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, or rivers, a side imaging device is highly recommended. This is because these bodies of water typically have more underwater structures, which in turn, means more fish to catch.

Is a Fish Finder the Same as Side Imaging?

No, while they both use sonar technology to detect objects in the water, they are not the same.

A fish finder is designed to locate and track fish based on their movements and underwater structures.

Side imaging devices generate detailed images that reveal much more data than just fish locations. They also give you visuals on other objects such as underwater vegetation, rocks, and more that can help you locate fish.

Which One Should I Get: Fish Finder or Side Imaging Device?

The answer truly depends on your fishing needs and experience level. If you’re a beginner, a fish finder is likely the best choice since it’s easier to use.

More experienced fishermen, however, may opt for a side imaging device to get an even more detailed view of what’s happening beneath the surface.

Both are extremely helpful to use when kayak fishing!

What are the Disadvantages of Fish Finders When Compared to Side Imaging?

The main disadvantage of a fish finder is that it can only provide basic information such as the water’s depth and fish locations.

As explained earlier, side imaging devices provide a much more detailed view of what is happening beneath the surface.

Now, personally, I did find it much harder to operate side imaging but once I got familiar with it and when I’m in deeper waters, I tend to use my side imagine device. In shallow waters, my fish finders are a life saver!

How Shallow Will Side Imaging Work?

Side imaging technology works best in depths of up to 300 feet although it does have some advantages over traditional fish finders in shallower waters.

Side imaging can provide more detailed images and data about the underwater environment which can be beneficial if you’re fishing in shallow water or areas with a large amount of vegetation or debris.

How Shallow Will Fish Finder Work?

Fish finders can typically work in depths of up to 300 feet or even deeper depending on the model.

However, they tend to be more reliable and accurate in shallow waters since they emit fewer signals that can interfere with the sonar readings.

Conclusion

The decision to choose a fish finder or side imaging device for your kayaking adventures depends on various factors such as your budget, the type of fishing you practice, and your experience level.

I find that both devices have their pros and cons and both are helpful given what environment you’re in. I’ve caught fish using both devices and the job is made so much easier when using either one.

Whatever you choose, make sure to learn how to effectively use the device and take advantage of all the features it has to offer!