How to Use an Aluminum Canoe

Aluminum canoes are one of the many choices when it comes to canoes. The unique properties of aluminum necessitate a few additional procedures not required when using other canoe types. Although there are disadvantages to owning aluminum canoes, their affordability and lightweight design make them desirable.

Things You'll Need

  • Paddle
  • Life vest
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Instructions

  1. Using Your Aluminum Canoe

    • 1

      Load your canoe with buoyant materials at either ends before entering the water. This will keep the canoe from sinking if your canoe capsizes.

    • 2

      Put your canoe into the water so part of it is still touching the beach or bank of the body of water. This will allow for greater stability when entering the canoe, and also entry from land without getting your feet wet.

    • 3

      Push off from the bank with your paddle, and sit down for maximum stability.

    • 4

      Paddle without bumping the oar on the side of the canoe. This will eliminate noise caused by the collisions, which could potentially disturb wildlife and others around you. You may benefit from having a foam wrap on your oar handle to dampen the noise.

    • 5

      Rock the canoe side to side if you are stuck on a rock and cannot push yourself off with your paddle. Aluminum canoes are more prone to becoming stuck on underwater obstacles.