Summer may be almost over, but canoeing season doesn’t have to end just yet. We’ve looked at what you need to do to get ready for your first canoe trip. Now let’s see what experienced canoers say about the things you should and shouldn’t do out there on the water.

DO:

• Tell someone where you’re going and when you should be back. “Better yet,” says longtime canoer Don Perkins, “give them a copy of the map with all your logistics data written on the back.”
• Load the canoe carefully to stabilize it. Liz Doyle, a former Outward Bound instructor, says, “If you’re heading into a strong headwind, weight the front (the bow) more heavily- it will make steering easier (if it’s a tail wind, weight the back [the stern] of the canoe).”
• She also says, “Hold the paddle grip at the top, not on the shaft! It’s amazing how many people hold their paddle incorrectly.”
• Wear long sleeves (loose-fitting synthetics dry more quickly) and shoes (not flip-flops!) that you don’t mind getting wet.
• A life jacket goes without saying.

DON’T:

• Bring alcohol (this actually may be forbidden in places).
• Stand up or try to swap places, says Sherry Gavanditti, a veteran of many family canoe trips.
• Try to hold onto tree branches as you pass them.
• Canoe where there are alligators. “I’ve done it and it’s insane!” says Ms. Gavanditti.
• Drink the water. (Bring plenty of your own.)
• Count on your cell phone working. But bring it anyway, in a ziploc bag.
• Use leaves for toilet paper. “A ziploc bag containing a few tissues is your friend. Nuff said,” says Don Perkins.

Take your time and see what’s going on around you – it’ll help you stay safe and enjoy yourself.

Tweet This Post