How to Portage a Kayak: The No-BS Guide for 2025

Last weekend at Devil's River, I watched a guy drag his $2,000 composite kayak over rocks for 200 yards. The sound of fiberglass grinding against limestone still haunts me. When he finally reached the put-in, his hull looked like it went through a cheese grater.

Here's the thing about portaging a kayak – it's not rocket science, but doing it wrong can ruin your boat, your back, or both. After 15 years of carrying kayaks through everything from manicured state park trails to bushwhacking adventures in the Boundary Waters, I've learned what actually works.

This guide covers the real techniques that'll get your kayak from point A to point B without drama. Whether you're dealing with a quick carry around a dam or a mile-long wilderness portage, I'll show you exactly how to do it right.

What You'll Need?

Before you hoist that kayak, let's talk gear. The right equipment transforms portaging from a sweaty nightmare into a manageable task.

Essential Portage Gear

Kayak Cart (Check Price on Amazon) For anything over 100 yards on decent terrain, wheels beat shoulders every time. The Seattle Sports Paddleboy All-Terrain Cart has handled everything I've thrown at it – from sandy beaches to rocky trails.

Shoulder Pads or Yoke (Check Price on Amazon) NRS Kayak Shoulder Pads turn your cockpit rim from a torture device into something almost comfortable. Worth every penny when you're facing a long carry.

Cam Straps (Check Price on Amazon) You'll need these whether you're using a cart or carrying. NRS 1" HD Tie-Down Straps are my go-to – strong enough for the job but won't over-tighten like ratchet straps.

Optional but Helpful

• Portage Pack: For gear that won't fit in your kayak during cart transport
• Work Gloves: Save your hands on rough terrain
• Bug Spray: Nothing worse than mosquitoes when your hands are full
• First Aid Kit: Because stuff happens

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Scout Your Route

Never start a portage blind. I learned this the hard way at Caddo Lake when a "short portage" turned into a cypress root obstacle course.

Walk the trail first without your kayak. Look for:

• Obstacles (fallen trees, boulder fields, steep sections)
• The actual distance (GPS it if needed)
• Rest spots for longer carries
• Trail conditions (mud, rocks, sand)

Common Mistake: Assuming the shortest route is the easiest. Sometimes a longer trail with better footing saves time and energy.

Pro Tip: Use the AllTrails app to check if other paddlers have logged the portage. Their reviews often mention current conditions.

Step 2: Prep Your Kayak

This is where most people mess up. You can't just grab and go.

1. Empty the water: Every drop adds weight. Flip it, drain it, wipe it down.
2. Secure loose gear: Nothing should rattle or shift. If you're using a cart, you might leave some gear in. If carrying, empty it completely.
3. Balance the load: If keeping gear inside, distribute weight evenly front to back.
4. Attach cart (if using): Position it just behind the center point – your kayak should tilt slightly forward when lifted at the bow.

I've tested dozens of kayak carts over the years, and proper setup makes all the difference. Check out our complete guide to the best kayak carts for detailed reviews.

Step 3: The Shoulder Carry Method (Solo)

This is your bread and butter for shorter portages or when wheels aren't an option.

The Side Lift Method:

1. Stand beside your kayak at the cockpit
2. Grab the near side of the cockpit rim
3. Lift and roll the kayak onto your thigh
4. Reach across and grab the far rim
5. In one motion, lift and place on your shoulder
6. Adjust until balanced – bow slightly higher than stern

The End Lift Method (for lighter kayaks):

1. Stand at the stern facing the bow
2. Lift the stern and walk forward, sliding the kayak
3. When at the balance point, duck under and shoulder it
4. Stand up with kayak balanced

Watch your footing – I've seen more injuries from tripping than from lifting. Understanding kayak weight and how it affects portaging can help you choose the right technique.

Step 4: Using Kayak Portage Wheels

For longer distances or rough terrain, wheels change everything. Here's the proper technique:

1. Position the cart: Just aft of center, secured with cam straps
2. Lift the bow: Keep your back straight, lift with your legs
3. Walk at the bow: Pull forward, not up – let the wheels do the work
4. Navigate obstacles: Lift the bow higher for roots and rocks
5. Take breaks: Every 10-15 minutes on long portages

Know This: Not all parks allow wheeled carts. The Boundary Waters, for example, prohibits them on most portages. Always check regulations first.

Step 5: Two-Person Carry

Sometimes teamwork is the answer, especially with heavy fishing kayaks or tandem boats.

Method 1 - Each End:

• Person at bow walks forward, can see obstacles
• Person at stern walks backward or sideways
• Communicate constantly about terrain
• Switch positions halfway to share the backward walking

Method 2 - Same Side:

• Both carriers on same side at cockpit area
• Works well for short distances
• Easier communication and visibility
• Less stable than end-to-end carry

For more techniques on general kayak transport and carrying methods, including vehicle loading, check out our comprehensive transport guide.

Pro Tips from the Water

Portaging Different Kayak Types

Sit-on-Tops: These beasts are usually heavier but the open deck makes cart attachment easier. The lack of cockpit rim means shoulder carrying requires a yoke or you'll be hugging plastic.

Touring Kayaks: Long and potentially heavy, but the defined cockpit rim sits nicely on shoulders with pads. Their length can make solo carries challenging on narrow trails.

Fishing Kayaks: Often the heaviest with gear. Empty rod holders, remove electronics, and seriously consider that cart. I've carried my Hobie Pro Angler exactly once without wheels – never again.

Foldable/Inflatable: Game changers for portaging. Pack them up and walk normally. If you're facing regular portages, check out the best foldable kayaks – might solve your problem entirely.

Terrain-Specific Techniques

Sandy Beaches: Wide, low-pressure tires or just drag it (only if it has a replaceable skid plate). Sand is forgiving but exhausting.

Rocky Trails: Go slow, watch every step. This is where shoulder pads earn their keep. Never drag on rocks unless you enjoy boat repair.

Muddy Paths: Wider wheels help. In deep mud, sometimes shouldering is actually easier than fighting a bogged-down cart.

Steep Hills: Zig-zag uphill with a cart. For carries, rest often and consider the two-trip approach for safety.

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Mistake 1: The Death Grip

Issue: White-knuckling the cockpit rim cuts off circulation and causes cramping. Fix: Relax your grip, use open palms when possible, and switch hand positions regularly.

Mistake 2: The Speed Demon

Issue: Rushing leads to trips, falls, and damaged boats. Fix: Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Take your time, especially on unfamiliar terrain.

Mistake 3: The Fully Loaded Carry

Issue: Attempting to carry a kayak full of gear in one trip. Fix: Make two trips. Your back will thank you, and you're less likely to lose gear.

Mistake 4: The Drag

Issue: Dragging your kayak to avoid lifting it. Fix: Get a cart or use proper carry technique. Dragging destroys hulls, period.

Gear That Helps

Beyond the basics, these items make portaging more bearable:

Compact Kayak Cart (Check Price on Amazon) The Dynamic Dollies Kayak Cart breaks down small enough to fit in most hatches. Perfect for unexpected portages.

Kayak Sling (Check Price on Amazon) For short distances, the YakGrips Kayak Carry Strap lets you carry hands-free. Great backup option.

Multi-Use Dry Bag Backpack (Check Price on Amazon) Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack lets you carry gear comfortably while portaging. Keeps everything organized and dry.

Lightweight Kayak If you're shopping for a new kayak and know you'll face regular portages, weight matters. Understanding kayak sizes and weights can save your back in the long run.

FAQ

What's the best way to port a kayak solo?

For short distances (under 200 yards), the shoulder carry works best. Position the cockpit rim on your shoulder with proper padding. For longer portages, invest in a quality cart – your back will thank you.

Do all kayak portage wheels work on rough terrain?

No. Small plastic wheels bog down in sand and struggle over roots. For rough terrain, you need larger pneumatic tires (10" minimum) or wide balloon tires. The Seattle Sports Paddleboy handles most terrain well.

How do you portage a heavy fishing kayak?

Never attempt to shoulder carry a loaded fishing kayak. Use a heavy-duty cart rated for the weight, empty all gear into a backpack, and consider making two trips. Many anglers upgrade to pedal kayaks partly because they often come with better transport solutions.

What's the longest distance you should portage?

Depends on your fitness and gear. With a good cart on decent terrain, I've done 2-mile portages. Solo carrying? I tap out around 400 yards unless I'm breaking it into multiple trips. Know your limits.

Can you damage your kayak by portaging wrong?

Absolutely. Dragging creates deep gouges, over-tightening straps can crack hulls, and dropping from shoulder height can cause major damage. Proper technique prevents expensive repairs.

What are the ways to carry a kayak with a bad back?

Use a cart exclusively, never shoulder carry. Consider a two-wheel cart you pull from the bow rather than lifting. For loading/unloading, check out our guides on truck bed loading and proper tie-down techniques to minimize lifting.

Should you remove the kayak seat before portaging?

Usually no, unless it's a heavy aftermarket seat. Most factory seats don't add significant weight. Focus on removing water, loose gear, and heavy accessories like fish finders or battery boxes.

How do Native Americans traditionally portage canoes?

They used the overhead carry method with carved yokes, often covering incredible distances. The technique inspired modern portage yokes. The key was distributing weight across the shoulders and maintaining balance – same principles we use today.

Next Steps

Now that you know how to portage properly, it's time to expand your paddling horizons. Those pristine waters beyond the portage trail are waiting.

Before your next trip:

• Practice lifting and carrying in your yard
• Test your cart on different surfaces
• Mark portage points on your favorite paddling apps
• Join local paddling groups to learn about secret spots requiring portages

Remember to follow general kayaking safety rules even during portages – let someone know your plans and expected return time.

Bottom Line

Portaging doesn't have to suck. With the right technique and gear, it's just a brief intermission between paddling sessions. I've portaged everything from ultralight touring kayaks to beast-mode fishing rigs, and the fundamentals never change: prepare properly, use good form, and don't be too proud to use wheels when it makes sense.

The payoff for mastering portaging? Access to waters most paddlers never see. Last month, a half-mile portage got me to a bass-filled pond that hadn't seen a lure in years. Totally worth the sweat.

See you on the far side of the portage trail!