5 Mistakes Every New Kayaker Makes... And How To Avoid Them
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- čas přidán 5. 05. 2024
- Dan gives the rundown on how to maximize your time on the water by avoiding the 5 most common mistakes made by new kayakers.
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The reclining position is best while drinking beer and fishing and let's not forget a fine cigar as well. Never kayak for exercise or sport, it's purely a recreational floating device. The paddles are to swat critters or other nefarious individuals.
Nailed it!
Nefarious individuals... the wife?
@@zolartan4442 Game and Fish, Park Rangers etc.
Hahahaha
🤣🤣
I have kayaked for around 20 years and this is great and clear advice. If I could add anything it would be to find a safe and shallow area close to shore and deliberately capsize yourself. Then figure out ways to get back into your kayak. It's awkward and takes some time but once you have the ability you'll be so much safer out on the water.
I’m a newbie so thanks for the advice & I have heard that before I live in Australia & it’s to cold atm but I will do it once it’s hotter. I haven’t looked into techniques yet getting back in seams like it would be easier climbing from the stern ?
This was the first thing my friend did with me (now my husband) when he was teaching me how to kayak, except he did not tell me ahead of time it would be our first task. I was sitting there proud I had gotten in without getting wet and then he says, ok, now we’re gonna tip this thing 😳😳…
Instructions unclear to me…Why capsize on purpose if you could get in the boat normally? More challenge, more fun? :-)
@@liluv1987 Hi, the reason is, if you do this multiple times, and work on your recovery, when it happens unexpectedly, sure you’ll be surprised, but you’ll immediately know first hand how to recover. Confidence and know how, will make all the difference and you’ll be much more calm and capable when handling troublesome situations.
I have rescued a few new kayakers who didn't know how to get back in the kayak. I always carry a paddle float to help others or myself in rough water.
I have been a "newbie" kayaker for several years. But, recently retired and really want to move past the point of feeling like a beginner. As I watched this video, I saw so many mistakes that I personally make. I am excited to get out over the next few months and apply what I have just learned. Thanks sooooo much!
Right on! So happy we could help.
I would love to get myself one of the old towns so I can get further down the river here in Oklahoma. I like to fish the north Canadian and I typically walk a couple miles down the bank, but a kayak would let me get more gear further down faster and easier. Also it would be nice to fish a lake with out a group of boats hovering around the bank I'm standing at.
I can totally relate!!
Watch some forward padding videos
Mate cut ya legs off. It’s heaps more stable there’s more room for fish n camping gear it’s a no brainer….
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This is my very first comment on any CZcams video. As a kayak instructor with around 20 years of whitewater and flat water experience, I really appreciate this video. It is simple, humble, and accurate. Kayaking can be challenging. It is also physically, mentally, and spiritually rewarding. The examples and advice in this video are spot on and nearly anyone getting started with paddling will have a much more enjoyable experience with these pointers.
Wow thanks for the kind words. I’m glad it holds water even with experienced instructors like yourself.
I prefer to exit my kayak in at least a foot of water or step out on the water side ( opposite side of the shore ). It’s like standing up from a chair. I’m 66 years old and it’s difficult to stand from a squatting position.😅 Great videos!
I love calm waters. I'm not into rapids or thrill seeking in that way, so I get you. I love the quiet tranquility. The handle control on the water is peace itself ❤
I love calm waters. I'm not into rapids or thrill seeking in that way, so I get you. I love the quiet tranquility. The handle control on the water is peace itself ❤
I'm trying to read everything I can find for beginner kayaker. Thank you for your video.😊
Near the end Dan showed how not to exit at the ramp. He tilted and and put his hand in the water to get his balance. I did the same thing as a beginner only in salt water. The water was cold and I didn’t know that my hand hit an oyster shell until I saw the blood running down my arm. So, keep a small towel in the dry bag Dan mentioned. You might need it for more than getting wet. I carry a small first kit in it also.
That's what they make gloves for.
As far as getting into a kayak I would recommend that new kayakers straddle the kayak in the water with the nose pointed towards the waves. Then plop their butt in the seat and begin paddling. Then once you have some forward momentum move your legs into the cockpit. Getting in parallel to the shore is fine for flat water but if you are in a place like Oahu where there are waves it's better to have the nose pointed towards the waves. I have seen so many people have their kayak roll onto to them with the kayak parallel to the wave action.
Concise ,specific , no BS to have to wade through. I gotta say one of the best tutorial videos I've seen . Well done !
My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. czcams.com/users/postUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!
I’ve been both flat water and white water kayaking for many years, and everything talked about is spot on. Even though I’m experienced, I am a complete klutz in getting into and out of the kayak. He showed me just what I was doing wrong (I had to laugh at myself) and what to do right. Great video and thanks for posting it.
My personal best kayak exit was in a sea kayak, I did a super slick paddle lean stabilizer move and looked super cool, took one step towards the front of the boat to move it to shore, realized both my legs had fallen asleep and immediately fell on my face in the Pacific Ocean.
Thanks the laugh!
There are so many mistakes newbies make as we all have. One I try to instill in people is to lightly grip the paddle in your hands. Most new kayakers have a death grip on it as if their life depended on it. This will wear you out in short order. They go home after paddling less than two hours and feel like they just got done doing a PX90 work out . Most beginners will start on flat water so there is no need for a tight grip. My grips will change slightly depending on water and weather condition but my techniques will stay the same. I have kayaked for 30 yrs now and most of my paddling is long distance touring. I have never suffered any injury in my wrist or arms from paddling. Like others have said kayaking should be enjoyable not a chore . As you increase in skills you can push yourself to more advanced waters if you wish. I really enjoyed your video. You mentioned pulling on the blade that's in the water while pushing on the opposite end and rotating at the waist at the same time. Keep your eyes focused on the direction you are heading. Great advise. I always try to help people if I see these common mistakes. I don't want someone giving up before they have a chance to truly experience the joys of paddling. Thanks again.
You’re such a natural with teaching. How articulate and clear you are helps us beginners understand you very well. Your assertive voice shows how confident you are in your paddle boarding skills. I’m kayaking with a group tomorrow, it’d be my 2nd or 3rd time ever, I’m sure these tips will make my experience better, I took down notes as you spoke. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
As someone who has had 2 hip replacements and a knee ACL replacement surgery, I am very appreciative of your visual display on how to exit the boat using deeper water so the knees are under you and aren't so high past 90 degrees. Thank you so much!
I've been to several Kayak courses and am a pretty confident paddler. I'm 63 so not as nimble as I used to be. Getting in the boat has become easier but it's always been getting out that's been my Achilles heel. I've got a 10 day trip coming up in a week and I'm going to try the deeper water exit first thing!
Thanks for the fun and informative video!
Just returned from the 10 day trip and tried your deeper water "exit strategy" first day. It worked perfectly! Thanks for the great tip!
51 and new to kayaking… thanks for making this video. Great info!
So glad to hear it helped! Thanks for watching.
Thankyou Dan, I used to be a white water boater years ago and needed some refreshing. Now that I'm older seeing your tips brought back my memories.
Best kayaking videos I’ve seen. Reviews are excellent. I’ve learned so much. Thanks for making them! -Paul
I agree Paul!
Thanks for the kind words! 🙏
I’m an angler and jumped into kayaking a number of years ago. Never understood how someone could paddle quietly! :)) I’ll also be fishing a snag infested river now and would like to take that into the cold weather season. Need to know a bit more to feel comfortable out there. Thanks for the long overdue lessons and knowledge on hull designs. Potentially critical knowledge. 🙏
I agree!
I might go kayaking for the first time this week. This video made me more comfortable. Thank you!
I love how you started out with the paddle backwards. I don't know how many times I have told kayak rookies to turn it over and then I show them how to efficiently paddle. Most people do what you do in the beginning of the video and short stroke the paddle.
I really enjoyed getting to re-enact all of that 😅
@@HeadwatersKayak, there are lots of T-Rex paddlers around, especially ones using inflatable kayaks. They are cheaper and more accessible - most people buying them unfortunately don't take technique into consideration, which is sad. I paddle an inflatable kayak and do my best to learn as much as I can.
Worst type to find on the water: one holding an asymmetric paddle upside down, lounging with legs out on top of the cockpit, and paddling T-Rex style... 🙄
Happy paddling!
Tom
I’ve been paddling for about four years now and I love it! I wasn’t able to get out on the water all of last year due to injury and taking care of my 91 year old father as he transitioned. I decided to pickup up an Oru Inlet this Christmas as a gift to myself after a trying year. I watched this video as a refresher and while I was aware of most of those mistakes, the most help today was getting out of the boat with bad knees. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU.
Glad you mentioned the sunburn...
My first day on the water (in my life) was a blast.... the next day... pure hell. My legs were straight up red. I peeled for weeks.
Amazing video. Your presentation was awesome, you weren’t condescending just straight facts and terrific tips. We just purchased our first pair of kayaks last weekend and after watching this episode I’ve already subscribed to your channel and look forward to watching your other videos. Thanks so much for creating this.
Our pleasure. Being condescending doesn’t get you anywhere in this life. Glad you found it helpful.
This is the best kayak video I've ever seen on CZcams. My only extra tip would be if you have an option always go up wind or up current at the beginning so you can come back with the wind and current.
We have a place near where I live that rents canoes for downstream trips, that will pick you up if you're using your own kayak for a reasonable fee. I think it's supposed to be a 5 hour trip, but we'd take our time and spend most of the day out on the water. We've also parked one car downstream to drive back to the launch point.
Those are even better options. 🙃
But yes, we'd definitely start upstream when we weren't doing that.
Thanks Robb, I knew that but had forgotten. I appreciate the reminder!
I started kayaking a couple of years ago. Too old and not interested in whitewater, I am fortunate to have a very long river in my area that is not too wild. I have 2 angler (sit on) kayaks (lifetime tamaracks) that I have run 40 miles on of that river. There was some white caps that got us pretty wet in a couple of places and rushing areas that scraped us against some rocks on the bank, but it was all in good fun. One lesson I learned quickly is once you have committed to the current there is no turning back. Paddle on ! I don't skimp on safety. I cover my skin from the sun (brimmed hat, long shirt and river pants that zip off and on at the knees) and have an Onyx vest with pockets for whistle, firestarter, emergency blanket, knife, and maybe some small thing I might want to take (camera, headlight or head bug net). I got the longer paddles, which work really good and also keep me dry on cooler days. I will not take any person with me that will not put on a life vest. I have had so much fun on that river. Islands to stop on, wildlife all over, watched deer swim across, most people on the river are fairly friendly, everything looks so different from the water. I had to give up dirt bike riding because of old and broken body syndrome and this is what I turned to for adventure. I would recommend kayaking to anyone looking for some adventure, but I would also say, if you are going on a river KNOW it first. Drive and explore every place you can see the river from, walk some of the bank and wade in the current so you know what to expect. Talk to others on the river or who have kayaked it. Also (hard learned lesson for me), if there is an upriver dam, find out what the flow rates are for each day of the week. Go to the dams flowrate page to see this, nothing else has that info. Check the day you are going also, you will want to know how fast and high that river is running that day, believe this, it makes a difference. Do not find out like I did. I have also paddled lakes, big and small. Some of the big ones on a windy day can have very large waves. It has been an absolute blast. I never leave my safety gear behind, my kayak is set up to take camping gear and a small cooler if I want, my friends know my rule about vests ahead of time so there is never an argument, I know my weight limit on my kayak and I know the flow rate of the river or weather conditions of any lake I go on before I go. It is so much fun. I wish everyone could have this experience. Play hard everyone, but play safe.
That's the first video I saw where someone uses the paddle this way to get out of the kayak. I figured this out by myself years ago, but I always thought I was doing it wrong, as no other paddle CZcamsr showed it that way. But I could never cope with their methods. So now I am delighted that "my" method is also a legit way of getting out of the kayak. Thanks a lot!
Thank you so much for this vid. You're such a great teacher! Clear descriptions, demonstrations, etc. Thank you!
Thank you for the tips for getting in and out, I seriously love kayaking and now I know how to get in and out correctly!
Thank you So very MUCH!!! This is an amazing video, very helpful!
Thanks again!
We’ll be looking at other videos!
Do poke fun at us! This is is mistake number 0: treating oneself too seriously. I am a beginner, and although i started well prepared, I made lots of mistakes. It was funny. I was funny. I had fun. I had a ton of fun while the river had some fun with me. I highly recommend this. 😂
Amen! We are splashing around in Little plastic boats after all.
This is /was me😂
I have just started kayaking and I really appreciate the way you demonstrate and explain what you are teaching. 👍🏻
Thank you for the video! About to take my kayak out for the first time tomorrow and was happy to learn some key pointers. I like that you add some humor in! Great video
Thank you for your videos! We are buying our first “entry level” kayaks, and really enjoy your tips and information on all aspects of kayaks!
Thank you. I've only kayaked once. Getting in and out was rough. Great information about the lifejacket
I am a very very very.... did I say VERY?!?! newbie kayaker. I have only kayaked twice, including yesterday. I went with a Meet-Up kayaking group, and I made every single mistake you discussed. Ughhhh. Embarrassing. I had the hardest time figuring out how to get in and out of the kayak and really made a spectacle of myself. There were some helpful people in the group, who thankfully, helped me (probably giggling under their breath). But I am going to try your getting in & out technique tomorrow, with another group I'm going to kayak with. Hey, just because I'm a derp on a kayak, doesn't mean I don't want to keep trying - LOL! Thank you for the pointers.
Glad it was helpful!
@headwaterskayak you showed how to get in the boat from the dock, so I was hoping you'd show how to get out at the dock
Dan, thank you for this video. I'm 62 and have been canoeing for years. I want to Kayak and your information makes me confident I can start the right way. Great information!!
Got a kayak for Christmas and so glad I watched this video. I wanted to be ready for my first attempt going out. Thanks for the great tips!
Just bought kayaks for the family. This is such an informative video. Thank you!
Loved this! Straight forward and to the point. Super helpful tips! Thank you!!
Thank you for producing that video, it is very helpful! I always found getting in and out of the kayak the hardest thing for me to do. Does tips will surely help me!
One of the best shows you have done on this subject! So helpful. Thank you.
Excellent video. I have kayaked before but did not know most of these tips! Thank you for sharing.
Excellent video. All killer, no filler. Easily one of the best beginner kayak videos I’ve seen. Thanks!
New user of a folding kayak , this is the best summary i’ve come across. Thanks! I’m still mastering getting out!
Thank you for this video, I rarely get to have the chance to kayak every year since I don’t have one of my own & That I can only be able to use a kayak whenever I’m at my Lake House. But I will still be using these strategies to help me use my Kayak more better every time I come to my Lake house. Thank you.
Love from NYC
Great video, very helpful, thanks! Will go kayaking again this Sunday ☺️
I just got my first canoe. Thanks for the tips. Especially the life vest.
You did such a great job illustrating these mistakes and corrections. Well done sir. I appreciate your efforts thank you.
Best instructional info available! So glad they where available when I started out paddling ☺️ entertaining at times as well! 🤣🙌🏻
Thanks for another great video. I would patronize your shop but I live in Georgia. Learned a lot from you. Chose my starter kayak (field and stream blade 9 foot) based on advice from your video 2 years ago. Tks for all the great teaching.
This was great! I got a kayak for my birthday and made every single mistake mentioned! I'm going to practice the basic stroke and in/out procedure. YOU ROCK!!! THANK YOU(:
Thank you. Subscribed. Went out on the water the first time yesterday (memorial day) on new kayaks and? We did good. Especially for newbies. I grew up canoeing so it wasn’t entirely alien to me however, your tips on stroke, posture, paddle grip and maneuvering are all great things I need to focus on to get the best out of my kayak. Great post. Thank you so much.
Thanks for the video, the PFD is definitely something I need to look into, I always thought they just were too tiny to support me. Looking forward to looking at your other videos.
Thanks for great ideas. Can't wait to try getting in off a dock with the paddle behind me. It's the trickiest part! You did not mention another common mistake- dropping your paddle or letting go the boat when you get out and letting it float away! I made myself a paddle tether, which also helps with getting in and out from a dock, as you can hook the paddle shaft behind a cleat.
Wow! What a great and informative video for novice kayakers like myself. This was very helpful and I’m going to save the video for future reference. This was good advice on how to enter and exit your kayak, how to turn, and how to maximize paddling strokes practicing good posture. Thanks!
Some great advice in this video and I will put it to good use, Thank you.
The tip for getting into the kayak from a dock was so good. I got wet and inverted when I tried it previously. Thank you!
Thanks. This was really helpful. I've been kayaking for years and I learned a few things.
I'm thinking of getting into kayaking
Thanks I needed this video.
Excellent! Very informative especially helpful for exiting with bad knees !,
Thank you. Taking a 101 course tomorrow with my wife who has never had formal training but been kayaking for about 5 years. This is very helpful!
Great info! How do you get out onto a deck or pier if there isn't a ramp or shoreline?
I have made all of those mistakes lol...especially the getting out part. Not as flexible anymore so this will help. Love your videos!
Really appreciate the entering/exiting the kayak segments. That is the hardest part for me.
Got my kayak in 2006 and learned most of what’s outlined here on my own but I did learn something from you on getting in and out from a dock. I usually tether a rope from the cleat to the dock and then get in the janky way but will try it your way. 👍🏻 Thanks Dan love the channel!
I rolled out my first couple times. I was so dizzy, lol.
This has helped me enormously, thank you kindly.
This is one of the best intro’s to Kayaking I have seen on the web. Clear concise and to the point.
Getting in and out of kayak was the best part. Thank you!
Bought my kayak last year after watching many of your helpful videos. Haven’t dumped yet! Thanks for the great tips.
I’m kayaking for the first time! I got a new kayak, thank you for all the tips ! Thank you for your time!!!
Thanks for the tutorial video and I have learnt quite a lot.
Looks like your video has inspired many including myself. Thank you for showing us. This is very inspiring. Inspiration is a gift from those that want others to have enjoyment. 🙏
No BS, informative & helpful.
Well done.
I have been wading through many beginners kayaking videos but only two were useful while others were too quick like 3-6 minutes. Yours by far the most informative. Thanks.
Hey 👋 stoked you found it helpful
Thanks for the informative video
Thank you, absolute fantastic video!
Just picked this boat up, third yak for me. Handles rivers excellently, very predictable! Threw a anchor on the front with some sailing rigging to keep it steady in the holes, a finder, front trolling holder and a small motor w/internal rigging for fishing. Love it!
We are now embarking on our both first experience of kayaking. Sitting in truck watching you one last time eating chicken salad sandwiches. The only thing we don't have is your sticker on our brand new boats, which I ordered a couple of days ago. Thank you for all your time and effort on these videos.
Brilliant Video - Thanks for Sharing
Thanks for great advice and tips for a newbie!
I have been kayaking for several years and still found some helpful hints. I really want to try the deeper water exit. Thanks for a to the point video and I will be looking forward to more.
Thank you so much for not only the video, but the detailed information and explanations for the beginner!!
My pleasure.
Thank you. That was very helpful.
Thank you mate, it is a really helpful video.
Great info and saving this. Thanks, 👍
I bought a lifetime fishing kayak this February. The lakes are FROZEN right now, these videos are what’s keeping me happy. I can’t wait to go paddle this thing.
Thanks for the video very informative
Thanks for the video. My wife got me one for Christmas. Very excited!!!
Fantastic every newbie should watch this many thanks
As a beginner, there is so much great info in here that I never even thought to consider. Great video, cheers!
Thank you this is very helpful
Oh my goodness this video is so helpful! Thanks so much and a new subbie here. Great content!
Thanks ! Really informative..
The first kayak I bought is the Intex K2 inflatable since I don't have room to store it at my house. Cool thing is that it comes with a skeg instead of a molded keel. I definitely need to upgrade on the paddles and I'm planning to get a Sevylor tandem inflatable kayak. The first time I launched my kayak was not on the launch ramp for boats, I actually set the kayak on the side on the ramp and just climbed in and pushed off from there
Wow, every boat manufacturer should make this required watching! So many boats and paddles hanging in Garages around the country, never getting back to the water because shops make it about the Sale instead of about the on the water experience! Those mistakes can really haunt you and build a negative relationship with your gear and the sport.
What is great is he makes it obvious it is just not that hard or expensive to have a GREAT time.
Great video, thanks!
Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching!
Great video! I think this will help prevent me from getting "dunked". Thanks so much!
Some very good points. Paddle, inexpensive not cheap. If you decide that kayaking is going to be a passion you can always upgrade
Great video. Proper explanation of all techniques in single video
What a great sum of knowledge! You talked about all these mistakes in your other videos but having it so condensed is pure gold. I wish I saw this video before my first kayaking session :)
Thanks for the kind words. Happy to get this in one place. Hopefully it’s just the first in a series.
Great tips, im upgrading my pungo 125 for a new one,great tips! i will practice the turning, and stopping mine could use some improvements.
Am an older woman who plans to go out to a local nature center and go kayaking within a few days. I loved this and the other videos of yours that I watched. Thanks for them.