How to Use a Kayak Boat

A kayak is a personal sized boat built narrow and lean to cut through the water easily. Since riding in a kayak brings the boater very close to the water, this perspective is sought by those seeking to fish, be adventurous or simply enjoy the scenery along a lake or river. Maneuvering a kayak is a skill that can be learned with practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Kayak
  • Double bladed paddle
  • Personal flotation device
  • Helmet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Enter the kayak in shallow water near the shore or with the kayak partially resting on shore. Place the paddle across the boat just behind the cockpit or hatch opening, with one blade resting on shore or just under the surface of the water. This will help stabilize the kayak. Keep your body low. Straddle the boat above the cockpit and enter the boat one leg at a time. Slide your legs forward toward the bow or front of the boat. Sit all the way against the back rest and keep your knees bent to about 120 degrees.

    • 2

      Hold the paddle in front of you with both hands and make sure you are gripping it comfortably with your arms straight in front of you and both hands the same distance from each end of the paddle.

    • 3

      Use one end of the paddle to push off from the shore and out into open water.

    • 4

      Hold the paddle in front of you again, elbows bent slightly, grip firm but not too tight. Rotating the shoulders, dip the paddle toward your right and into the water. The stroke should begin about even with where your ankles are resting. Keep your hips stable and use your back and torso muscles to pull the paddle blade through the water.

    • 5

      In a smooth motion, bring the paddle briefly back to the starting position straight in front of you, then repeat the process of shoulder rotation and a paddle stroke on the left side of the kayak.

    • 6

      Moving the paddle from right side to left side in smooth pulls will propel the kayak forward. Turn the kayak by repeating strokes on one side only, the opposite side to which you wish to turn. To slow the kayak, drag the paddle in the water at your side.

    • 7

      To exit the kayak, paddle it back to shore and use your arms to pull yourself up while keeping the knees fairly straight. Slide back and use the paddle for support as you dismount from the kayak.