Why does your kayak have holes in the bottom? Well-spaced holes in the bottom of sit-on-top kayaks are self-bailing holes called scupper holes. Scupper holes in the kayak's hull are designed to allow water that splashes inside or drips off the paddle to drain out instead of pooling in the floor of the kayak.

Should you plug scupper holes?

If you're kayaking with a heavy load, you should plug in your scupper plugs before paddling. The extra weight will submerge your kayak further down, and water will rise from the holes. The scupper plugs will protect you from capsizing. In the summer, covering the scupper holes might not be a priority.

What is self-bailing scupper holes?

Scuppers or scupper holes are openings found on the side walls of kayaks or any open-air boat (structure) to help drain off water. ... They are designed to be self-bailing, meaning they automatically drain any water coming in or flowing over the deck.