New hatch on plastic kayak

[DJP]

Howzit, sold the fat bikes and have a couple of plastic kayaks on the way.
Got a couple of Fluid Chumani kayaks, and want to install an 8inch hatch behind the seat so that I can insert my rods if needed.
I saw a vid from Brett Armstrong of Wildcoast kayaks where they installed one on the Chumani's but haven't done it myself so have a few questions.

Are there better type of hatches to purchase in terms of use and ability to seal?
Are stainless bolts better than water proof rivets?
What type of sealant should I use between the kayak and the hatch i.e. clear PVC weld, silicone sealant, or epoxy?

Any other advise welcome.

Images of the hatch I want to add (the other hatch is exiting).

 

[DJP]

.

 

[RobG]

Howzit,
I used stainless steel nuts and nylock (I think its called) bolts with normal silicone.

Works well without any issues.

Rather cut too small and widen if needed....you only get 1 shot at it after all!

I am not convinced that the hatch would be good for rods however. It is not that easy to get to when on the water. I use it for a cast net and dry bag to create more deck space. Rods I strap to the deck or side but I dont really do surf launches.

 

[DJP]

Hi Rob, lekker to hear from you, do you also own a Chumani?
I won't be doing too many surf launches, if any, but I like the idea of having access to extra space. Maybe to put a fish bag in (away from the seals), stow away speargun whilst fishing or place for a dry bag on river missions.

Your advice is spot on, exactly what I got from Brett of Wildcoast kayaks.
Brett has subsequently fitted square hatches on the chumanis which looks much easier to access.

I'll post some photos of what Brett did on the latest Chumani's taken from this website. https://www.wildcoastkayaks.co.za

 

[DJP]

Looks proper!

 

[RobG]

I have a Synergy. Work well for me on my own and I can take my son out when he wants to join. Big and stable. I only fish lagoons and estuaries. There ae enough to choose from around me.

I have a round hatch at the back but I put a fish box on top and strap it down. Whats in the hatch does not need to be accessed often. Once you have live bait, the cast net gets put in there along with the dry bag. I have a smaller hatch in front for things I need to access regularly.