Canoe Paddling Tips

One of the most popular types of outdoor recreation is canoeing, and the activity can be done alone or with a number of people, depending on the size of the boat. Canoeing can also be piloted across rivers, lakes, in rapids and even oceans. Knowing a few paddling tips can be helpful for those who are planning on trying canoeing.

  1. Preparation

    • The first few basic things anyone going into a canoe for the first time should do is to know the size and weight of your boat and to familiarize yourself with the type of water you are paddling on. Preparing for a trip is key to its success. Be sure there is a functional life jacket for each passenger and that the paddles are in good order. If you are going on an overnight trip or longer, make sure you have a first aid kit on the boat, and a map of where you are going. Finally check weather forecasts and water levels to have an idea of the conditions on the water.

    Paddle Stroke Types

    • Knowing the different types of paddle strokes and when to use them is an essential element of any trip. But first, always remember to hold the paddle as vertical as possible, and to keep your upper hand full extended.
      If you are going out on a solo venture in a canoe, you will most likely employ the J-stroke or the superior stroke when steering from the stern of the vessel. Solo canoeists do this in order to maintain a straight line direction for the boat, for the forward and back strokes will turn the bow of the boat slanted and away from course. The J-stroke is perhaps the most used in a solo venture. Depending on the speed and depth of the water, other strokes, such as the pry or draw, can be used when attempting to move the boat over or away from danger. The pry stroke is used to draw the boat to the side opposite the paddle, while the draw stroke draws the boat to the paddle side. A sweeping stroke can turn the boat around to one side or another in a circular motion.
      Canoeing with others also requires a different type of planning. If riding a tandem canoe paddled by two people, the stronger of the two should take the stern of the ship, whereas the canoer at the front is more responsible for steering.

    Paddle types

    • The proper selection of a paddle is a key element of canoeing, and investigating the needed length and width of a paddle is a good idea. There are several companies that manufacture wooden, plastic and fiberglass paddles. For beginners, a lighter paddle is fine for open stillwater travel, and those are usually made of plastic or light wood. On running river or rapids, a slightly heavier, sturdier paddle is best to help manage and control the unexpected changes in water speed. Whitewater blades are most commonly flat, or spooned to catch the maximum amount of water. You can purchase canoe paddles online from several retailers, such as Cabela's or REI.