Kayaking can be one of the most peaceful or thrilling outdoor adventures you embark on, but what if you want to capture the experience? Taking a camera on a kayak seems like a no-brainer for anyone who loves photography and the outdoors. But carrying sensitive, expensive gear on a vessel that can easily flip? That takes a bit more planning. Here’s how you can safely and effectively bring a camera along while paddling your way through serene lakes or fast-moving rivers. Waterproof Gear Water and cameras are not the best of friends. One option to protect your equipment is using…
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Using an action camera while kayaking can transform your adventure into a memorable visual journey. But, securing stunning footage from a kayak requires a bit more than just slapping on a camera. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your action camera during your next kayaking trip, with a few unique considerations that will make your footage stand out. 1. Mounting Choices: On-Body vs. On-Kayak One key decision you’ll make early on is whether to mount the camera on your body or the kayak itself. Both have pros and cons depending on what kind of footage…
When it comes to kayaking, one of the most common questions is: How deep does the water need to be? You’re not the only one curious about this, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. The depth of the water can make all the difference between an enjoyable kayaking experience and a potentially unsafe one. Let’s break it down bit by bit so that next time you head out on the water, you’ll feel confident that you know what to expect. First off, the depth needed depends on the type of kayaking you’re doing. If you’re just…
When you’re getting ready for a kayaking adventure, the last thing on your mind is probably your footwear. You’re thinking, “Flip-flops? Sure, why not. They’re comfy, easy to slip on, and if they get wet, who cares?” But wait—are flip-flops really OK for kayaking? Short answer: Nah, not really. But, let’s dive—wait, no, let’s… uh… splash into the details. Yeah, that works. Splash. Slippery When Wet So, you know how kayaks are basically little floating water buckets? Water gets everywhere—your butt, your legs, and yup, your feet. Now imagine you’re in your trusty flip-flops. You’re trying to push against the…
Out on the water, kayaking’s often peaceful, just you, your boat, and the open air. But every once in a while, nature throws you a curveball. Imagine paddling along when suddenly a seal decides your kayak looks like a good spot to take a break. It’s surprising, maybe even a little unnerving, but there’s no need to freak out. Sit Tight and Assess First things first, don’t start panicking. Freaking out’s the last thing you want to do. The calmer you stay, the calmer the seal is likely to be. If you start moving around too much or yelling, the…
When you’re out kayaking, seals might seem like curious companions. From a distance, they appear playful, gliding through the water or basking on the rocks. But if you’re wondering if these marine mammals can get aggressive towards kayakers, you’re not alone in that thought. Seals and Their Natural Behavior Seals, like any wild animal, have unpredictable behaviors, especially if they feel threatened or are defending their territory. If you paddle too close to them or disturb their environment, you might get a reaction. It’s not that they’re constantly looking to cause trouble, but certain triggers can set them off. They’re…
Kayaking accidents, particularly fatal ones, often seem preventable, but they happen more frequently than most would expect. Drowning stands out as the leading cause of death, accounting for over 70% of kayaking fatalities, according to multiple studies on water sports safety. Each year, the U.S. Coast Guard releases statistics about recreational boating accidents, and kayaking consistently ranks high on the list of water activities with deadly outcomes. Drowning Data According to a recent report by the U.S. Coast Guard, out of the 658 fatalities in recreational boating in the year 2022, nearly 75% of them involved drowning. And among those…
Kayaking is a thrilling way to experience the open water. You paddle along, feeling the rhythm of the ocean or lake beneath you. Sometimes, though, a thought creeps into your mind. What if a shark is lurking nearby? Many wonder if they’re in real danger while kayaking. Let’s break it down in simple terms, looking at facts, stories, and advice from experts. Sharks: A Real Threat or Just Fear? The fear of sharks is natural. Movies, media, and urban legends have often painted them as these monstrous predators waiting to strike at any moment. But in reality? It’s a lot…
Kayakers throwing their paddles—it might seem strange at first, right? You see it happen and you think, “Why would they do that?” But turns out, there’s actually several good reasons for it. From keeping their balance, to rescuing someone, or even just avoiding injury, letting go of the paddle can sometimes be the smart move. Keeping Balance in Rapids In whitewater rapids, things get pretty wild. Water crashing everywhere, pushing the kayak around. Sometimes, a kayaker will toss their paddle to keep their balance. Sounds weird, right? But when you’re about to tip over, having the paddle stuck in an…
The 50-90 rule in kayaking is a guideline that helps paddlers make decisions based on wind, water conditions, and their own endurance. It’s rooted in practical experience, offering advice that can keep you safer out on the water. Here’s what it boils down to: when you’re out kayaking, if you’ve traveled 50% of the total distance of your trip and used 90% of your energy, it’s time to reassess. This rule is about ensuring that you have enough stamina to return safely, especially if conditions change unexpectedly. Paddling is more than just moving a kayak across a body of water.…