How to Pilot a Canoe

Paddling a canoe can be a good form of exercise, especially if you are the only one moving the canoe. You can pilot a canoe on your own or with another person, but you should know the proper techniques for steering and paddling in order to make sure that you will get the most out of every paddle stroke.

Things You'll Need

  • Canoe paddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sit in the back seat of the canoe if you are paddling with another person. If you are alone, it is best to sit on a cushion in the middle of the canoe so that your weight is distributed evenly on the boat.

    • 2

      Make several forward strokes on one side of the canoe to move forward in the water. Hold the paddle with both hands, with one on the top of the handle and the other on the side of the handle. To make a forward stroke, put the paddle in the water and pull it back and turn it slightly in the shape of a letter "J" at the end of the stroke. This will allow the canoe to go straight when you are paddling solo. Continue to make these strokes on alternating sides.

    • 3

      Place your paddle in the water on the side you want to direct the canoe when it begins to drift. Pull back slightly on the paddle to create resistance in the water, which will turn the front of your canoe toward the direction of your paddle side.

    • 4

      Use your paddle to direct the canoe when you are paddling with another person. Your viewpoint from the back of the canoe will help you see what side of the boat needs more pull from a paddle to direct the canoe in a straight line.