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Phones and water don't mix, but paddlers rely on phones for navigation, weather updates, photos and emergency calls. The right combination of a waterproof case, a secure mount or tether, and a charging plan keeps your phone usable and safe.
We compared mounts on grip strength, compatibility with kayak track systems and rails, adjustability and corrosion resistance, and cases on waterproof ratings, touchscreen usability, camera clarity and flotation. Remember: a phone is not a substitute for a VHF radio in many coastal situations. See kayak VHF communications.
Mount or pouch?
Mounts hold your phone where you can see it, ideal for navigation and fish finder apps. Waterproof pouches worn around the neck or clipped to a PFD keep your phone on your body, which matters if you capsize and get separated from your boat. Many paddlers use both: a pouch on the PFD for safety and a mount for navigation on calm days.
The best phone mounts and cases
| Pick | Role | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAM X-Grip phone mount | Best mount | $$ | Secure phone mounting |
| Scotty phone mount | Best for Scotty systems | $$ | Scotty-equipped kayaks |
| Waterproof phone pouch | Best pouch | $ | Keeping a phone on your body |
| Rugged waterproof phone case | Best case | $$ | Heavy use |
| Floating phone strap | Best add-on | $ | Recovering dropped phones |
1. RAM X-Grip phone mount
$$Best for: Secure phone mounting
RAM's X-Grip holds phones securely and pairs with a wide range of bases and track adapters.
What we like
- Secure grip
- Many bases
Watch out for
- Bulky
2. Scotty phone mount
$$Best for: Scotty-equipped kayaks
Scotty offers phone mounts compatible with its bases.
What we like
- Scotty compatible
Watch out for
- Limited to system
3. Waterproof phone pouch
$Best for: Keeping a phone on your body
A waterproof pouch with a lanyard keeps your phone dry and on your body.
What we like
- Cheap
- Wearable
Watch out for
- Hinders touchscreen
4. Rugged waterproof phone case
$$Best for: Heavy use
Rugged waterproof cases protect phones from water and drops.
What we like
- Protection
- Usable touchscreen
Watch out for
- Model-specific
5. Floating phone strap
$Best for: Recovering dropped phones
Floating straps help keep a dropped phone at the surface.
What we like
- Cheap insurance
Watch out for
- Adds bulk
Mounting systems
Fishing and sit-on-top kayaks often have gear tracks that accept mounts from brands like RAM, Scotty and YakAttack. Other kayaks can use deck-mounted bases or clamp-on mounts. See kayak track systems and drill-mounting on a kayak.
Waterproof ratings
Look for IPX8 or equivalent ratings for submersion. Test any case in a sink with a paper towel inside before trusting your phone to it. Check seals regularly; sand and salt degrade them.
Tethers and flotation
A tether or lanyard prevents losing your phone overboard. Floating cases or float straps help recover a dropped phone. Tethers shouldn't create entanglement risks; use breakaway designs.
Touchscreen and camera use
Some pouches and cases hinder touchscreen use and camera clarity. Clear windows over the camera lens help. Wet screens are hard to use; many phones have a water lock mode.
Power
Navigation apps drain batteries. Carry a small battery bank in a dry bag, and keep your phone in low power mode. See kayak photography and staying dry.
Heat
Phones in clear cases in direct sun can overheat and shut down. Shade your phone when possible.
Testing a waterproof case
Before trusting your phone to any case or pouch, test it: close it with a tissue inside, submerge it in a sink or bucket for the time the case is rated for, then check the tissue. Repeat periodically, especially after the case has been exposed to sand or salt. Check seals and zippers for debris before each trip.
Mounting positions
Mount your phone where you can see it without twisting, typically in front of the cockpit on a track or deck mount. Make sure it doesn't interfere with paddling, fishing or re-entry. Some paddlers mount phones for navigation only on calm days and keep them in a PFD pouch in rough water.
Emergency use
Keep your phone accessible on your body in case you capsize and get separated from your kayak. Save emergency numbers and know how to share your location. In areas without coverage, carry a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon. See kayak safety gear.
Cameras and action cams
Many paddlers prefer action cameras for photos and video, saving the phone for navigation and emergencies. Action cameras mount on tracks or helmets. See kayak photography.
Corrosion
Salt water corrodes metal mount parts and phone ports. Rinse mounts and cases with fresh water after salt water trips, and dry your phone's ports before charging.
Budget choices
A cheap waterproof pouch plus a floating strap covers basic protection. A mount and rugged case cost more but add convenience for navigation and fishing apps.
Mounts for fishing electronics
Many kayak anglers mount phones next to fish finders to run navigation or fishing apps. Use track systems for flexible positioning.
Waterproof pouch tips
Choose pouches with double seals, strong lanyards and clear windows. Keep the pouch clean of sand. Remove the phone and dry the pouch after trips to prevent moisture buildup.
Satellite communication
In remote areas, a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon provides emergency communication beyond cell coverage. Keep it attached to your PFD.
Our picks by use
For fishing and navigation, a RAM or Scotty mount plus a rugged case. For touring and safety, a waterproof pouch on your PFD. For photos, an action camera plus a phone in a pouch.
A layered approach to phone safety
The safest approach combines several layers. First, a waterproof case or pouch that you've tested. Second, a tether or lanyard so the phone can't drop overboard. Third, flotation, either a floating case or a float strap, so it can be recovered if the tether fails. Fourth, a mounting position that keeps it secure while you paddle or fish. And fifth, a backup: a VHF radio, a satellite messenger or a paddling partner with their own phone, so a single device failure doesn't leave you without a way to call for help. Each layer is inexpensive, and together they make it very unlikely you'll lose your phone or be left without communication.
Our bottom line
Keep your phone dry, tethered, floating and within reach. A tested waterproof pouch on your PFD protects your safety line, and a secure mount adds convenience for navigation and fishing apps on calm days. Back it up with a VHF or satellite messenger where coverage is poor.
Mounting without drilling
If your kayak lacks tracks, clamp mounts, deck bungee mounts and adhesive-backed bases offer options without drilling. Test their security in calm water before relying on them. For permanent mounts, follow proper sealing steps. See drill-mounting on a kayak.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep my phone dry while kayaking?
Use a waterproof case or pouch, test it first, and tether it.
Should I mount my phone on my kayak?
Mounting is great for navigation, but keep a safety phone on your body.
Can a phone replace a VHF radio?
Not reliably in many coastal areas. Carry a VHF where appropriate.
What waterproof rating do I need?
IPX8 or equivalent submersion protection.
How do I prevent losing my phone?
Use a tether and floating strap.
Can I take photos through a waterproof pouch?
Yes, through the clear window, though image quality may drop. Some pouches have clearer camera windows.
Are phone mounts safe in rough water?
Secure mounts hold well, but in rough water it's safer to keep your phone in a pouch on your body.
Can I charge my phone on a kayak?
Yes, with a small battery bank kept in a dry bag. Dry your phone's port before connecting.
Do phone mounts work on inflatable kayaks?
Some inflatables have mounting points or accessory patches; check compatibility before buying a mount.
What if my phone gets wet inside a case?
Power it off, remove it from the case, dry it and follow the manufacturer's guidance. Don't charge it until it's fully dry.
Is a waterproof pouch enough for kayaking?
For most recreational paddling, a tested IPX8 pouch with a lanyard and float strap works well. Rough water and long trips benefit from a rugged case too.