How To Enter A Kayak

When planning a float down a river, it is important to first know how to enter a kayak. This vital step can be a breeze, or leave you soaked and embarrassed. Follow these instructions so you will know how to enter a kayak like a pro:

To enter a kayak, you will need:

• A kayak
• Water shoes
• A paddle
• A life jacket

1. Before you enter a kayak, put on a life jacket. Always wear a life jacket when kayaking or canoeing. Excellent swim skills will not save your life if you are knocked unconscious by a paddle or rock.
2. Put the paddle in the boat to prevent you from dropping it in the water. When learning how to enter a kayak, it is easy to make a mistake and lose your paddle. Although most paddles float, it is best to keep it safely tucked into the boat when putting your kayak into the river.
3. Drag your boat to the edge of the water.Float the boat in about an inch of water, and put one foot in the bottom of the boat. Water shoes are the best footwear when boating because they can get wet and dry quickly. They also have a rubber lugged soul that will prevent slipping.
4. Place your hands on either side of the boat frame and bring your second foot into the boat. Do not stand in the boat, as this will cause it to tip. When first learning how to enter a kayak, this is the trickiest part.
5. Grab the paddle from bottom of the boat and use it to push out of the river sediment. Once you are seated in the boat the extra weight will cause the kayak to no longer float in the shallow water. This step may take longer when you are first learning to enter a kayak. Place the paddle at a 45 degree angle and dig it into the river bed. Continue using the paddle to push off the bank until you are able to float.
6. Once you are floating, begin paddling, making quick shallow strokes. Paddle away from the shore, and steer clear of shallow water.