Before you can go kayaking, you have to get your boat to the water and sadly this usually means carrying it. “Many hands make light work” so it’s always a great idea to get your paddling partners to help haul your boat, but if your kayak is light enough, or if you’re strong enough, you may sometimes want to try a solo carry. As with most endeavors, good technique can make this a lot easier. Kayaking is not only about paddling through the waters, but it’s also about how you handle your vessel on land. Proper handling and carrying of…
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Having been in the water more times than I’d like to admit during my kayaking adventures, I’ve come to appreciate the value of self-rescue techniques. The ‘scramble’ is one of those techniques that is as straightforward as its name suggests. For any kayaker, mastering this maneuver can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and an extended swim. When you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, the first order of business is to get your boat back to its upright position. Using a bit of finesse, try to lift the bow while turning it. This technique ensures minimal water floods…
Navigating the waterways on a kayak is as much about mastering technique as it is about embracing the flow. And among the nuanced strokes that every seasoned kayaker should have in their repertoire, the high brace lean turn stands out. Let me break it down for you from the eyes of someone who’s felt the water’s resistance and the exhilaration of a sharp, smooth turn. The high brace lean turn is like merging a graceful dance and a biker’s precise cornering. The crux? Melding the high brace with a deliberate boat tilt for that impeccable turn. The high brace plays…
When you paddle out into the river, you’re not just engaging in a recreational activity. You’re entering a zone where knowledge, preparation, and quick thinking can spell the difference between a fun adventure and a dire situation. Understanding the various facets of river rescue—ranging from self-rescue techniques to specialized equipment like throw bags—is not merely advisable, it’s imperative. Whether you’re a beginner testing the waters or a seasoned pro, here’s your guide to ensuring that you and your paddling buddies can handle whatever the river throws your way. Self Rescue As soon as you find yourself in the water, assume…
Ready to turn your kayak into a water glider with personality? Gather your supplies, get comfortable, and don’t even think about rushing through this. Every step is crucial, so let’s dive into the details! 01. Preparing the Ultimate Painting Arena The stage for your kayak’s transformation should be nothing short of perfect. Here’s how to set it up: 02. Time to Strip Down – The Kayak, Of Course! A masterpiece begins with a clean canvas, and your kayak is no exception. Here’s what you need to do: 03. Scrub, Clean, and Sand That Beauty This step is all about the…
Richmond, Virginia, perched upon the fall line where the Piedmont region meets the coastal plain, is not simply a city with an illustrious history. It’s where the James River, with its spirited rapids and serene stretches, breathes life into the region and beckons kayakers from far and wide. The churning waters that once powered Richmond’s mills now power the adrenaline rush for paddlers exploring one of America’s most enticing urban waterways. From the seasoned expert seeking a challenge to the recreational paddler looking for leisure, Richmond’s river offers something for everyone. Best 3 Places to Kayak in Richmond, Virginia 01.…
Picture your first kayak voyage. Amid the calm flat water lakes, you set off for fishing, paddling your way through tranquil waters. The bliss, however, doesn’t last. Your kayak pulls to the left, a seemingly invisible force tugging it away from the straight path. A sense of frustration washes over you. Why does your kayak keep spinning? This spinning predicament is a common concern among many kayak owners. It can be tricky to pinpoint the exact reasons why your kayak veers off to one side. However, through careful analysis and a little sleuthing, it is possible to solve this mystery.…
Sizzle-pop! That’s not your kitchen stove. That’s the sound of culinary adventure, of a gourmet feast being conjured in the heart of nature, right by your kayak. Who said paddling and panache can’t go together? If you’re an intrepid kayaker with a taste for the finer things, this guide is your passport to turning your next kayak trip into a gastronomic voyage. The Concept of Gourmet Kayak Cooking The fusion of fine dining with outdoor adventure may seem paradoxical, but it’s a union of pure delight. Imagine this: You’ve spent the day conquering the river, and now you’re ravenous. But…
Whether you’re navigating the terrain from your vehicle to the water’s edge or transporting your kayak around a campsite, kayak wheels, also known as kayak carts or trolleys, can be a kayaker’s best friend. These handy tools are designed to help you easily move your kayak over various surfaces without the strain of carrying it. While the basic concept of using kayak wheels may seem simple enough, understanding the right techniques can go a long way in ensuring your kayak’s safety and the longevity of the wheels. Here, we’re going to dive deep into the two primary methods of placing…
For some time now, I have been trying to find an easy way to store my lip gripper while I was fishing out of my Pelican Blitz 100X EXO Kayak. At first, I just placed it on the floor of the kayak attached to a lanyard, but it rolled around making a lot of noise and also was in the way where I sat. The clip on lanyard (leash) would be wrapped around my leg when I was trying to use it. Then I put it in one of my rod holders, but I found that it was hard to…