Boat Shouldering Techniques

Sometimes you have to carry your canoe or kayak from one body of water to another. Learning how to safely carry your canoe from one place to another is easy enough with a few simple techniques. You can portage a canoe by yourself, with another person or, as some prefer, with a tumpline.

  1. One Person

    • In some ways it is easier to carry or portage a canoe solo than with another person. With just you carrying the watercraft you do not have to take in to consideration and match the other persons gait or height to your own. However it is easier to lift and position the canoe with two people.

    Two-Person Portage.

    • If two people are matched in height the two-person method of shouldering a canoe can be less of a strain. Two can carry more of a burden so gear can be carried with your canoe while portaging.

    Tumpline

    • A tumpline is a strap that is tied to either side of the center thwart. The strap sits on your head and acts like a spring. This removes the pressure from your shoulders when portaging.

    Safety

    • Empty canoe completely of water before lifting. Use your leg muscles to lift canoe. Keep back straight and knees bent. When lifting canoe lift to thighs and rest before you continue to bring canoe to your shoulders. Lift from your thighs and slowly roll the canoe and gently bring it to your shoulder.