Paddles, Oarlocks & Kayak Accessories at Fisheries Supply
This page is for boaters choosing paddles, oarlocks, and kayak accessories for dinghies, canoes, and small craft.
It explains how to select and maintain paddles and oar systems, which kayak accessories matter most for comfort and safety, and how Fisheries Supply supports both recreational and commercial customers with deep inventory and nationwide and international shipping options.
What To Know
- Reliable paddles and oarlocks improve control and reduce fatigue.
- Kayak paddle length should match paddler height and kayak width.
- Basic safety kit includes PFD, whistle, bilge pump, and dry layers.
- Rinsing, drying, and inspecting gear extends service life and safety.
Why Choose Fisheries Supply for Paddles and Oarlocks
Fisheries Supply is a long-established marine distributor with a broad selection of oarlocks, paddle oars, canoe paddles, and kayak accessories in stock. Our inventory includes trusted brands such as Sea-Dog Line and Perko, so you can match proven hardware and accessories to your boat, crew, and operating area.
Canoe, Dinghy, and Kayak Essentials
For any small craft—whether a rowing dinghy, a tripping canoe, or a fishing kayak—dependable paddles and oar hardware are central to safe boat handling.
Oarlocks and Oar Accessories: Oarlock systems transfer every stroke into forward motion, so fit and material matter. We carry high-quality oarlocks in bronze, brass, stainless, and zinc alloys, along with matching sockets, bushings, and clamp-on hardware for retrofit installations.Paddles and Caviness Canoe Paddles: Our paddle range spans compact dinghy paddles, multi-piece kayak paddles, and classic wooden canoe paddles, including models from Caviness and other established manufacturers.
Kayak Accessories for Enhanced Paddling: Thoughtful kayak accessories improve comfort, safety, and boat control on the water. Our selection includes air pumps, paddle grips, oar holders, adjustable foot braces, hatch covers, and small-boat bailers and bilge pumps designed for use in open, salty environments.
How to Choose Paddles, Oars, and Oarlocks
Kayak Paddle Length and Fit: For kayaks, paddle length depends primarily on paddler height and kayak width. Taller paddlers and wider recreational boats usually call for longer paddles, while shorter paddlers and narrower touring kayaks can often use shorter shafts for a more relaxed cadence and reduced fatigue.Oar Length and Leverage: On rowing dinghies and small inflatables, oar length is chosen to provide comfortable clearance between the blade and hull while allowing a natural arm extension at the end of the stroke. Short oars reduce leverage and can feel “choppy,” while overly long oars can be tiring and awkward in tight spaces.
Materials and Hardware Choices
- Bronze and brass oarlocks resist corrosion and suit traditional craft.
- Stainless and zinc hardware balance durability with value for workboats.
- Wood paddles offer warm grip and quiet, forgiving blade entry.
- Composite and aluminum shafts reduce weight and improve stiffness.
Matching oarlock material to your existing hardware and environment (freshwater, saltwater, or brackish) will minimize corrosion and maintenance over time.
Safety and Comfort Accessories to Prioritize
Kayaking-Specific Life Vest: A kayaking-specific life vest or personal flotation device (PFD) is cut high at the back to clear the seat, with armholes designed for a full paddle stroke. For general use, boaters often choose Type III or Type V paddling PFDs that balance mobility with buoyancy.Explore our range of kayaking PFDs and life vests to match your boat, crew, and local regulations.
Quality Paddle Versus Minimal Oars: A good quality paddle is usually more enjoyable and efficient than relying on the most inexpensive oar and oarlock combination available. Investing in a well-matched blade shape, shaft length, and grip can noticeably reduce strain on shoulders and wrists during longer outings.Manual Bilge Pump and Bailing Options: A compact manual bilge pump or bailer gives you a simple, mechanical way to clear shipped water from the cockpit after a capsize, rescue, or heavy spray. A reliable choice is a hand-operated pump such as the Beckson Thirsty Mate manual bilge pump, sized appropriately for your canoe, dinghy, or kayak.
Additional Small-Craft Safety Gear: In addition to a PFD and bilge pump, many paddlers carry a compact signaling kit, spare paddle, and basic repair items. A properly mounted whistle or other sound signaling device is widely recommended for paddlers sharing traffic lanes with larger vessels.
You can browse higher-visibility PFD models via performance Type III and Type V PFDs, add a compact whistle to your life vest, and pair it with a manual bilge pump to round out a practical small-craft safety kit.
Care, Inspection, and Storage
Regular maintenance extends the useful life of paddles and oar hardware and reduces the chance of a preventable failure during a crossing, tow, or rescue.
- Rinse gear with fresh water after saltwater or silty use.
- Check oarlock pins and fasteners for corrosion and looseness.
- Inspect blades for chips, cracks, or delamination.
- Store paddles and oars dry, out of direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size paddle for my kayak?
The ideal paddle length depends on your height and kayak width. Generally, taller individuals or those with wider kayaks require longer paddles.
What safety gear should I have when paddling?
Essential safety gear includes a PFD, whistle, bilge pump, and appropriate clothing for water temperatures.
How should I maintain my paddling equipment?
Rinse equipment with fresh water after use, store it in a cool, dry place, and regularly inspect for damage to ensure longevity.
If you do not see the exact paddle, oarlock, or kayak accessory you need, our team can help you identify suitable alternatives or special-order equipment for your particular boat or project.
Call Fisheries Supply customer service or contact us online for application-specific guidance.