The Cover Plate allows you to block off the big hole right under the hatch door. So you can keep most of the water out of the hatch incase you want to keep tackle or what else dry. We use Yakattack plugs for the top hatch hole also and the two holes in the bottom of the hatch. Adding a bead of silicone to the cover plate before installing will also help with sealing up your hatch. 

We also have three different attachments for the cover plate. "Sold separately" 

All hardware is provided to attach the cover plate to your kayak.