Prior to every kayak fishing trip, I go through an extensive mental list of gear that I can’t go without, and after several years of kayak fishing I’ve reduced the number of gadgets and tools found on my PFD and in my kayak cockpit. Now one of my goals as I gear up is to take the least amount of gear possible. Why? I hate to fumble around the kayak as I try to fight, land or release a fish, only to find that my pliers are sitting under the net, tangled with the hawg trough and pinned under the seat by…
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Kayaking in water conditions such as high tide, high sand bar and deep bottom can cause your kayak to start wobbling or flip over. High tide is when the tide is at its peak for the day. High sand bar means a ridge of sand has formed in the current. Deep bottom means the bottom end of a water source. You can stop your kayak from wobbling to have better control over your steering and speed. Step 1 Step down into the center of the kayak, which will keep it from wobbling as you enter it. Keep your feet side-by-side…
Learning the basic strokes to paddle a kayak will enhance your enjoyment and make paddling easier. These basic strokes serve as a foundation for further skills and advanced paddling techniques, so taking the time to master them will open future possibilities. Paddler’s Box The paddler’s box is a position to hold your body in while paddling. To get in the box, first figure out how to hold your paddle. Hold the paddle above your head with its midpoint directly above your head. Move your hands outward toward the blades until your elbows are at approximately a 90-degree angle. While keeping…
Using the correct techniques to paddle a canoe increases your efficiency and helps you to maintain endurance, all while helping to prevent unnecessary injuries. The art of paddling a canoe takes practice to master. These instructions will help the beginner to learn the basic strokes and provide the experienced with a review of proper form and technique. Instructions Step 1 Be mindful of posture. All of your upper body muscles are used when paddling a canoe. When paddling, keep your arms straight and maintain good posture while keeping your body relaxed, allowing your shoulders and waist to turn as you…
A rudder is an important component to any kayak. While often associated with turning, the rudder is actually used most often for keeping the kayak moving straight. Making your own rudder is a good idea, because a kayak’s waterline determines the size of rudder you will need. Making your own rudder allows you to customize it specifically for your kayak, and ensures you’ve got a quality product. Things You’ll Need: Rubber outline planSharpie marker1/4-inch Plexiglas1/8-inch PlexiglasSawBelt sander, metal file, or jitterbug sanderKnifeClampEpoxy glue1/8 inch Bolt120-grit sandpaper Step 1 Find and print an outline of a rudder schematic. Make sure the…
Kayaking can be one of nature’s most relaxing sports. Installing your own rudder can give you more control over your kayak and allow you to sail on rougher waters for longer distances. With a few simple steps, you can take a plain piece of plywood and turn it into a beautiful and unique rudder for your kayak. Difficulty: Moderate Things You’ll Need: PlywoodJigsawSanderDrillFiberglassPaint brush Step 1 Design your rudder pattern. You can make your pattern simple or more detailed if you want a challenge. You will need at least a 5-inch rudder for many recreational kayaks. Step 2 Use a…
Storing your kayak properly will help to extend the longevity of your boat and make it easier when you want to take it out for a paddle. An improperly stored kayak can collect mold and be susceptible to unnecessary weathering. The kayak isn’t as complicated to store as other boats, but there are several simple measures which can be taken to ensure that your boat is stored safe and dry. Step 1 Whenever you are going to store a kayak, make sure that it is clean. Wash off your kayak with water from a hose to make sure that all…
Heavy and often unwieldy, kayaks can be difficult to carry. Ideally, two people should be involved when lifting and moving a kayak. A single person should carry a kayak only when necessary. Kayaks aren’t cheap, and neither are doctor bills. Lifting and moving a kayak properly prevents damage both to the vessel and to those moving it. Lighten the Kayak Empty the kayak of all loose items, including any water. To drain the kayak, simply roll it over. If necessary, use a bilge pump to remove water trapped inside the bulkhead or far toward the back or front of the…
Many of London’s old rivers have been lost, buried beneath centuries of urban expansion, but some still flow into the Thames. The River Roding, in eastern London, is one such river, joining the Thames at Barking Creek in the east of London. Canoe access can be made at Creekmouth, where free on-street parking is available on River Road. Shoulder your kayak and walk through Creekmouth Open Space – the path leads to a good set of steps which descend to the mouth of the river. The huge guillotine of the Environment Agency’s flood defence system towers above the river here,…
Kayaking is a great activity that helps promote participation in exercise, gives the opportunity to socialize and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Plus, a regular paddling session is certain to result in subsequent weight loss. While the calories burning during kayaking aren’t the fastest, a day long kayak trip has the ability to promote all-round health and well-being. How Many Calories Do You Burn During Kayaking? Here are several issues that relate to the calories you will burn while kayaking: Calories Burned Kayaking For 1 Hour The ability to burn calories on a paddling session is influenced by several factors, including…