Kayak Tips
~ Ineventiably something gets
wet when paddling always keep in mind that you
can dry your gear by threading clothing garments
through your paddle shaft and suspending the
paddle between trees. Another alternative is
to bring along a small line, or use the tow
line to hang wet gear.
~ Stay in your canoe/kayak if
it becomes stuck. Try shifting your weight carefully
as you push off with your paddle or pole. If
you drift sideways onto a rock, lean your weight
toward the rock. This unnatural response will
keep the upriver side of your boat high, and
thus prevent water from pouring in. If stuck
on a rock first locate the rock. It is often
under the middle of your boat. Before you try
to get off the rock discuss a clear route with
your partner. If one or both partners need to
get out of the boat remember that once the weight
is removed, the boat will probably float free
and either try to get away from you or knock
you over. Several rocks could be cooperating
to hold your boat.
~ Avoid hanging things around
your neck (car keys, whistle, safety knife),
they could catch on a branch. Don't paddle it
if you are not willing to swim it.
~ Triple wrap extra batteries
for your GPS, weather radio, and headlamp. D
~ Ask all group members about
medical conditions, allergies, or other physical
problems BEFORE the trip.
~ Have a rescue throw bag in your
canoe BUT make sure you know how to use it and
practice using it. Whitewater
~ When paddling on whitewater
plan your path all the way through a rapids
before you enter it. Maximum water flow generally
marks the clearest path. Communicate with your
partner as you move through the rapids so that
you work together. Remember that the bow paddler
can see what is immediately in front of the
canoe, and thus calls the quick defensive moves
if miss your "line".
~ Respect anglers and waterfowl
hunters, pass around their lines and decoys
quietly and quickly.
~ For the first night on the trail
bring a homemade entrée that you have wrapped
in 4-5 layers of foil and then frozen. By the
time you reach your campsite the meal will be
thawed and ready to heat up on the fire.
~ Carry two separate means of
starting a fire, stored in separate waterproof
containers.
~ Do not call or whistle to rouse
birds or animals, you may disrupt important
feeding or nesting activity.
~ Leave your paddling route and
return time with a relative or friend.
~ Learn and understand how to
make and read conventional river signals and
make sure everyone in your party also understands
them. (and stay within communicating distance
with your group).
About the Author:
Rob Daniels is an avid kayaker and outdoor enthusiasts
more at Snorkeling Shop http://www.snorkeling-shop.com
and Kayak Escape http://www.kayak-escape.com
