How to Use Kayak Paddles With a Canoe

Kayak paddles have blades on both sides of the shaft. A kayak paddle is easily used with a canoe, provided it is long enough. Canoes tend to be wider and sit higher on the water than kayaks, requiring the longer length paddle. A modified paddle stroke is employed during the canoe session with the double-bladed kayak paddle. Because the paddle is dual sided, the canoe tends to move faster as a result of the extra stroke.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable length kayak paddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Adjust the paddle to a length of 240 cm to 250 cm. Leave the blades flat. Flat blades means keeping the two kayak paddle blades aligned equally. Use a feathered blade when paddling into headwinds to reduce wind resistance and drag. A feathered blade has the two paddles perpendicular to each other, or at a 45-degree angle to the other.

    • 2

      Dip the kayak paddle blades into the water so two-thirds of the blade is below the water surface. This is different than a typical canoe paddle stroke where the paddles is placed farther into the water. Alternate your stroke, making micro-adjustments to keep the canoe tracking straight. For example, if you are moving to the right, add slightly more pressure on the left hand stroke to correct the turn, and vice-versa.

    • 3

      Get into cadence with a paddling partner if paddling with another person. The first person sets the cadence, or speed, with the kayak paddles. Fall in line with their stroke. For example, if they begin with the right hand stroke, time it and wait then join in with the right stroke.

    • 4

      Experiment with the kayak paddle, trying to turn the canoe 360 degrees with just four strokes. Reach as far forward as possible with the right side of the paddle, and sweep all the way back to the stern, keeping the blade two-thirds in the water. Pull the paddle up and out of the water and reach behind you with the left side of the paddle. Sweep from the left stern to the left front to continue the 360 degree turn. This teaches basic turns that are easily translated into practical maneuvers while paddling.

    • 5

      Back paddle with both sides to bring the canoe to a slow down or stop.