How to Maneuver a Canoe

Canoes are the earliest known form of boat, and have evolved over the years from simple structures made out of hollowed-out tree trunks to sleek fiberglass versions. The earliest known canoe was found in the Netherlands, and archaeologists believe it dates back to between 8200 and 7600 B.C. The basic paddling strokes to maneuver a canoe include the forward, backward or aft, pull and draw strokes.

Things You'll Need

  • Personal Flotation Device (life jacket)
  • Canoe
  • Paddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on a personal flotation device. Put the paddle in the canoe lengthwise, wedging the blades under the bow and stern. Push the canoe into the water; keep one hand on the bow. Have someone else hold the canoe steady for you. Turn the canoe sideways, with the paddle on the far side of you. Put your hands on either side of the canoe and lift yourself in. Keep your hands on either side of the canoe while you move slowly and steadily to your seat.

    • 2

      Use the paddle to push off the shore into deeper water. To move forward, hold the paddle vertically and dip it into the water on one side of the canoe. Sweep the paddle smoothly from front to back. Switch the paddle to the other side of the canoe and repeat.

    • 3

      To move backward, hold the paddle vertically and dip it into the water on the one side of the canoe. Sweep the paddle smoothly from back to front. Switch the paddle to the other side of the canoe and repeat.

    • 4

      To move sideways toward something, reach the paddle out away from the canoe. Dip the paddle in the water and with a pulling motion, and draw the paddle toward the canoe.

    • 5

      To move sideways, away from something, dip the paddle in the water, close to the canoe. With a pushing motion, pry the paddle away from the canoe.