canoe/kayak rack options w/shell

So I got a double cab, short bed with ARE shell on the bed and the shell was a craigslist deal without a rack on top. I love to boat and I need to find a way to keep from having to haul boats on a trailer.

Does anyone know if I can add a rack to the topper safely?

What other options should I look at? I have been thinking about going custom fab. I have a stainless tube ladder rack that was made to fit an F150 that I might could cut down and make work, just not sure where to start.

Thanks

 

Whiskey101, What did you end up doing? I am looking into a set up to load canoe/kayaks as well.

 

I haven't done anything. I did learn that if I want to install a rack, it can get dicey. There are two layers of fiberglass with a soft foam between them and you have to make sure you put the bolts through at the right spot or you get leaks.

I decided to just get some of the foam rooftop blocks for now.

 

This is what i did

I have kayaks this works good for me

 

whiskey101, If you have a rear tow hitch, here is an option, "Extend-A-Truck" for your application you would need both front and rear tow hitches and two of the extend-a-trucks. Yes, they make a front hitch. With front and rear hitches, you carry the kayak overhead, like ladder racks on your roof without touching your truck. You will see in photo what I am suggesting. Also "HarborFreight" has a less expensive version of the extend-a-truck ($55). If you have access to a welder, you can easily make your own out of 2x2 and 2-1/2 tubing.

With one extend-a- truck you could carry your kayak half in the bed of your truck, half on the support arms.

 

whiskey101, If you have a rear tow hitch, here is an option, "Extend-A-Truck" for your application you would need both front and rear tow hitches and two of the extend-a-trucks. Yes, they make a front hitch. With front and rear hitches, you carry the kayak overhead, like ladder racks on your roof without touching your truck. You will see in photo what I am suggesting. Also "HarborFreight" has a less expensive version of the extend-a-truck ($55). If you have access to a welder, you can easily make your own out of 2X2 and 2-1/2 X 2-1/2 tubing.

With one extend-a- truck you could carry your kayak half in the bed of your truck, half on the support arms.