Author: Arthur

Many peoples throughout history have operated dugout boats similar to our modern canoe. In the islands of the Pacific, canoes were typically stabilized by an outrigger, a small offshoot to one side of the boat that aided in keeping the boat balanced. Making your own outrigger is a simple addition to any canoe. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Measure your canoe. With a typical load in it, measure the side of the canoe from the top of the side to the level of the water. This will be the finished height of your outrigger. Step 2 Cut…

The real challenge in keeping your core temperature up when kayaking is exercising self-discipline. It’s easy to skimp on neoprene socks, a change of clothes and knit hats. But a day on the water will turn disastrous without staying as warm and dry as possible. You’ll also find new comfort and pleasure in kayaking if you can do it comfortably and without compromising your health. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Wetsuit Paddling jacket Gloves Knit hat Non-cotton layer Fleece Water and wind resistant layer Chemical hand warmers Neoprene socks Waders Change of clothesWetsuitPaddling jacketGlovesKnit hatNon-cotton layerFleeceWater and wind resistant layerChemical…

Using an anchor can greatly expand the versatility of your boat. With an anchor in tow you can park overnight in areas without mooring or simply drop anchor to go for a swim. However, using an anchor requires a little more knowledge than simply lugging along a heavy chunk of metal. Most important is properly attaching your anchor to your craft. Otherwise, you’ll drift off while your anchor falls beneath the waves. The proper knot for attaching your anchor to a rope is absolutely essential. Instructions Step 1 Run your rope through the final loop in the anchor chain. You’ll…

The way your outdoor gear and equipment fits is a determining factor in how much you will enjoy a sport and kayaking is no different. Kayaking for a long period of time can be hard on your back if your seat is rigid and doesn’t fit quite right. Adjusting a kayaking seat can be done easily with dense foam. Things You’ll Need: High density closed-cell foam Sharp knife Scissors Duct tapeHigh density closed-cell foamSharp knifeScissorsDuct tape Instructions Step 1 Sit in your kayak and lean all your weight into the seat. Take note of where your back hurts or where…

Every now and then, wood and cane canoe seats need to be replaced. Maybe the cane was cut or torn on an outing, or perhaps the seats finally succumbed to the elements. You can buy cane canoe seats from almost any canoe and kayak shop, but many people choose to make their own. The cost savings is insignificant really, but there is a pride in such an accomplishment. Moreover, do-it-yourself seats can be customized with different types of wood or patterns of caning to make an original creation which fits your personal style. Instructions Difficulty: Moderate Things You’ll Need: Measuring tape…

If you own a kayak and keep it outside without a shelter, you’ll want to cover it up. Though kayaks are made to be tough, eventually the sun, rain and other weather elements will eat away at its durability and life span. You can purchase your own kayak cover, though it might be a bit pricey. It’s quite possible, though, to make your own. It might not be the prettiest kayak cover in the world, but it will suit the purpose of protecting your kayak from the elements. Read on for some tips to making your own kayak cover. Things…

Kayaking in open water can be a lot of fun but you do need to be aware of weather conditions before going out. Not only do you need to know information such as wind speed and direction, wave heights and tidal currents, before you go out on the water, but you should also pay attention to changes in cloud patterns that might affect you while you’re on the water. Knowing what the weather is doing and being prepared for it is the best way to have a safe, enjoyable trip. Instructions Step 1 Determine what direction the wind is blowing.…

Canoeing is an activity that many of us can’t get enough of. Your canoe can get you to your favorite fishing spot, a remote trail or through white water. Whether you canoe on open water or in rapids, you depend on your paddles to get you safely and effectively through the water. Making your own paddles will not only save you money, it will provide you with the right paddle for your own unique canoeing experience. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Band saw Hatchet Carving knife Eye protection Ash or cherry wood plank (2 inches by 6 inches) Pencil…

Whether by kayak, canoe or whitewater raft, when it comes to aquatic sports, you often trust your life to your life jacket. Keep a life jacket in working condition involves a bit of regular maintenance to ensure continued cleanliness and usefulness. A number of bad things can befall a poorly treated life jacket, from mildew to fraying. Thankfully, maintaining a life jacket doesn’t have to be onerous or burdensome. All it takes is the right treatment and the proper cleaning methods. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Hose Wash bucket Mild detergent Scrub brush Sponge High-pressure nozzle Clothes hangerHoseWash bucketMild…

From whitewater rafters to fishermen, one of the fundamental pieces of safety equipment for most water sports is the life jacket. They are invaluable flotation aids for those who are unable to keep afloat on their own. Like boats, they are designed using the science of buoyancy. Buoyancy An object is buoyant when it has an average density lower than that of the liquid around it, enabling it to float on the surface of that liquid. For example, oil floats on water because it is less dense. Likewise, a person becomes more buoyant when his lungs are full of air,…