Your Essential Guide on How to Get into Kayaking for Beginners

Getting Started with Kayaking

What is Kayaking?

Kayaks have been in use for thousands of years. Early kayaks were made by stretching animal hides over a wood or bone frame. They were waterproofed using the fat from animals. Kayaks were primarily used to transport hunters and family groups from one place to the next as they sought food and shelter.

In 1936 Kayaking officially became an Olympic sport. Recreational kayaking continued to grow in popularity. Today recreational kayaks are primarily made from rotomolded polyethylene. They are more durable, lighter, cheaper, and require less maintenance than the first kayaks.

Kayaks are relatively easy to use, easy to move from place to place, and you can launch them right from the shoreline. Kayaking continues to grow in popularity, and with these kayaking basics, you can start having your kayak adventure. Kayaking is a great way to explore nature, get exercise, and relax and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Choosing the Right Kayak Gear

Choosing the right kayaking gear begins with choosing the right kayak. The choices of hull design and type can be overwhelming for someone who is looking to get into the sport. All kayak designs can do just about anything, but not all of the designs are good at what you want to do. When picking out a kayak consider what you want to do 90 percent of the time. Check out "Selecting the Right Kayak" for more advice on how to choose your kayak. Consider renting a kayak or taking a guided tour to get started.

Kayaking Essential Gear

Kayaks are essentially the Swiss army knife of watercraft. The type of gear you need will depend on the type of kayaking you plan to do and the conditions you will be paddling in. Beginner kayakers need to have at least the gear below to start:

• Kayak Paddle. Check out "Selecting a Kayak Paddle" for advice on what one might be right for you.

• Personal Flotation Device or PFD. Kayakers under 12 are required under Federal law to wear a life jacket aboard any type of vessel, including kayaks. Even though it is only required for 12 an under it is strongly recommended all kayakers always wear their PFD.

• Dry Bag, like the YakGear YakSack, to keep your electronics and other gear safe.

• Kayak Flag with Light. Since kayaks sit low to the water, Hoodoo Sports highly recommends you get one to increase your visibility to other boaters.

• Safety Whistle

• Paddle Leash. In the event something happens a paddle leash keeps your paddle from floating away from your kayak. There are also gear leashes which can save you money if your kayak flips.

• Bilge Pump. Most kayaks have hatches that go to their internal hull that are water resistant. On a kayak trip where you're planning on spending a few days traveling you should consider bringing with you a bilge pump.

• Tow Rope

Basic Skills

To be safe on the water, there are a few basic skills a beginner kayaker should practice on a calm body of water.

Adjusting Your Kayak

If you ensure your kayak is well-adjusted, it will be more comfortable and stable. It is best to make the adjustments while you are in shallow water, or while the kayak is still on dry land. These three points should be your primary focus:

• Make sure .the small of your back is snug against the seatback

• Hoodoo kayak seats can be raised and lowered. Adjust the height to what is comfortable for you. The lower the seat the more stable the kayak will be. If you are a beginner kayaker, consider using the lowest setting until you're comfortable with how your kayak moves.

• The balls of your feet should reach the footpegs while allowing a slight bend in your knees.

• With a pedal-driven kayak, you should not have to overextend to drive the kayak. If needed, extend the foot pedals out so you can comfortably operate them.

Basic Strokes for Beginners

Unlike canoeing, kayaking is done with a double-bladed paddle. Each paddle blade is pulled through the water to propel the kayak forward. There are 3 basic kayaking strokes every beginner kayaker should learn.

Forward Stroke

To perform a forward stroke, move one of the paddle blades above the water towards the bow of the kayak. Lower the forward paddle blade into the water and draw it back to you. When you finish the stroke the opposite side paddle blade will already be in a forward position lower it into the water while raising the back blade. Then pull it back to you. You will be drawing long ovals in the air and water with your paddle blades. Remember slow is smooth and smooth is fast. Keep a steady pace and your kayak will move forward.

Reverse Stroke

The reverse stroke is used to slow or stop the kayak. To perform a reverse stroke, move one of the paddle blades above the water towards the stern of the kayak. Lower the back paddle blade into the water and push the water toward the bow. When you finish the stroke the opposite side paddle blade will already be near the stern ready for the next stroke.

Draw Stroke

The draw stroke is used to turn or move your kayak sideways. Move your paddle 90 degrees to the water on one side of your kayak. Draw the water towards you and your kayak will move sideways. This is the one stroke that can also cause beginners to lose balance and fall out of the kayak.

Righting Your Kayak

It happened; you fell out of your kayak now what? This can happen to even the most experienced kayaker. Here are the steps you need to take:

• If your kayak rolled completely then you will need to flip it right side up.

• Get alongside your kayak.

• Reach and grab the opposite side of the kayak.

• With both arms pull yourself onto the kayak. keeping your chest down on the kayak.

Launching and Landing Your Kayak

Launching from Different Locations

The portability of a kayak allows you to launch from almost anywhere. When going to your launching area, make sure you do not drag it over rocks, cement surfaces, or sand. There are kayak caddies like these that help protect your kayak. The best place for launching is a gradually sloping shoreline where you can maintain contact with your kayak. Consider using a dock or a launch ramp to make it easier to get in and out of the kayak.

Getting in the Kayak

• Set the kayak down in shallow water with your bow facing away from the shoreline and your stern close to the shore in an angled position. The kayak should be fully afloat.

• Straddle the cockpit as you stand over the kayak.

• Holding onto the cockpit, sit in the seat and settle your feet comfortably on the footpegs.

• Holding the paddle, use it to move yourself out into the water.

• There are three basic ways to get into a kayak: straddling, with support, and sidesaddle.

• The sidesaddle method is the easiest way to launch a sit-on-top kayak.

Landing and Getting Out of Your Kayak

To land your kayak paddle forward towards the launch exit until your bow runs aground. Getting out of a kayak is easier than it may seem. Simply reverse the process you used to get in.

Safety Precautions for Kayaking

Essential Safety Checklist

• Always wear a properly fitting life jacket. Your life jacket should fit snuggly and should not be able to be removed from above your head. Test the fit of a life jacket on a child by lifting it up by the shoulder straps.

• Bring a whistle, tow line, and first aid kit on every kayaking trip.

• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.

• Fill out a float plan and make sure someone has it so they can report your location if necessary to the Coast Guard.

• If you plan on traveling offshore, purchase and learn to use a marine radio. Check out "Offshore Kayak Fishing Safety" for more tips and advice.

Safety Tips and Reminders

• While kayaks are very stable watercraft you should know how to right your kayak if it capsizes.

• Wearing a life jacket is essential for your safety.

• The Coast Guard defines cold water as anything below 70 degrees. If you are kayaking in cold water, consider wearing a wet suit or dry suit.

• Always paddle with a buddy and let someone know your planned route and expected return time. You can get a float plan template from the Coast Guard website.

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for other watercraft and obstacles.

• Know your limits and don’t paddle further from shore than you can easily swim.

• Bring fresh water with you.

What to Wear When Kayaking

Dressing for Success

If you are kayaking in warm weather, you should wear shorts or swimwear. Plan on protecting yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a sun-shielding hat, sunglasses, and SPF-rated clothing. Experts advise wearing neoprene footwear (essentially a wet suit for your feet). Avoid cotton or natural fibers, as they can become heavy and cold when wet. In colder climates consider wearing a wetsuit or dry suit.

Conclusion

Hoodoo Sports' goal is to ensure everybody enjoys the outdoors to its fullest. We are ready to outfit you with the best kayak and kayak gear the market has to offer. As a family-owned business, we make it our mission to provide top-of-the-line equipment with the best customer service. Talk with our experts to learn about kayaking basics and receive professional tips to make your kayaking experience the best possible.