If you’re addicted to the rush of racing downstream, then Slalom Kayaking is the event that’s definitely worth experiencing. Because of the fast speed involved in this competition event, it is also important to have quick reflexes and the ability to make split-second decisions. This section will give you an overview of this very exciting sport. Mechanics Slalom Kayaking, otherwise known as whitewater slalom, is a race that involves negotiating a course that goes both upstream and downstream while passing through numbered gates that are made up of suspended poles along the course. There are two kinds of gates: one…
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Where intense concentration is the key to victory in Slalom Kayaking, speed and the ability to spot the fastest route are king when you go River Racing. In this section, we will discuss the basics of this competition event – from the mechanics to the specifics of boats used. Mechanics In this event, competitors race to be the fastest in a given course which are rapids that range from Grades 3 to 5. Competitors in this event start at one-minute intervals and the race is typically completed in around 20 minutes’ time. Races are very exciting to watch. The reason behind…
The flounder is a saltwater marine animal with continuous fins running the length of its body. Best known for having two eyes on the same side, most flounder are approximately 20 inches in length and weigh less than 10 pounds. This popular game fish is most commonly found in deep, dark waters, where it is easier to hide and wait for a strike. Rig your fishing line specifically for flounder and maximize the number of strikes your line receives. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Rig your fishing line with two hooks, a 1- to 2-oz. pyramid sinker…
The spotted bass is a less frequently caught member of the sunfish family. A cousin to the smallmouth and largemouth bass, the latter of which the spotted bass closely resembles, is a fish native of the Southern United States, though it is now stocked outside of area and as far away as South Africa. Accessible to anglers fishing rivers and streams, the spotted bass becomes somewhat elusive in reservoirs, since it prefers deep waters. For this reason, many anglers are unfamiliar with this fish. Using a strategy geared specifically to spotted bass may increase your chances of a catch. Instructions…
In whitewater kayaking, there are inherent risks just as in any outdoor activity. Knowing your risks and what to do if you get into trouble is the best way to keep yourself safe and to minimize the risks. Hazards on the Water On-the-water hazards can be anything from rocks to trees and branches. Before hitting a new route for the first time, do a bit of research on the known hazards that are on the route. Always be prepared for new hazards that may come up because of low or high water levels and other changing conditions. Hypothermia The temperature…
Sea kayaking and touring gives a low platform to the water that turns you into an active participant in the surrounding seas, versus being a passive observer on a large motorboat. Having a whale surface near you in a kayak or watching seals and sea otters on their level gives a new perspective to the ocean environment. Knowing how to select a kayak for your body type, paddling needs and requirements requires a bit of study. Step 1 Look for the hull specifications on the kayaks in which you are interested. These dimensions are typically measured in inches. Look for…
Brisbane, Australia boasts miles of sandy beaches and access to the Indian Ocean. Sea kayaking on the coast is challenging due to the open coast, large ocean swells, marine wildlife and surf launches and landings. Learning how to kayak in the Brisbane area means learning how to navigate these challenges safely and with the proper technique. The region has several companies and instructors geared specifically to teaching these techniques for safe kayaking in the waters around Brisbane. Be aware that in Australia, many times kayaks are referred to as canoes. Step 1 Research the Brisbane area for accredited sea kayak…
The Greenland style of sea kayak paddle is long, lean and has a very narrow set of blades. Greenlandic Inuit use these to paddle their kayaks (spelled qajaq in Greenland) to hunt for walrus, seal and narwhal. The paddles themselves are designed in this narrow style to help cut down on wind resistance when paddling through the high winds of the Greenlandic fjords. The Greenland style paddle was originally sculpted from whatever driftwood the Inuit found. Now, Greenland style paddles are made with hardwoods and modern tools. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Challenging Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Position the long piece of…
Sea kayaking gets you into places many other crafts can’t go. Dipping your paddles into the water in sea caves or along rocky shores are the advantages to sea kayaking. There are times when having a sponson, or outrigger, for your kayak adds to the stability of the craft. Open water crossings or paddling the open coast often brings large ocean swells, best handled with an outrigger. For adding quick outriggers to your sea kayak, keep some extra gear on your kayak to assemble an on-the-fly outrigger. Instructions Difficulty: Moderate Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Inflate both paddle floats and clip…
There’s nothing more uncomfortable than paddling a high-sided canoe from a low seating position. Not only is a low seating position uncomfortable, but it also reduces the ability to control the canoe and makes it difficult to kneel with your legs under the seat. Many manufacturers mount the seats in their canoes lower for greater stability while sitting. As a canoeist advances in skills, his grasp of stability increases, which reduces the dependence on a low seat. Many advanced paddlers raise their canoe seats well above the factory setting. Step 1 Unbolt, using a wrench, the ¼-inch bolt that holds…