Kayaking is a Great Sport to get Involved In.
Using our Kayaking Tips will help keep you safe. Kayaking puts you on the water, outdoors in places few can get to without a kayak. If you love the outdoors, you will love kayaking! Going down a pristine river, floating on an alpine lake, exploring the coastal waters, watching the wildlife, catching that fish of a lifetime or just hanging around floating with friends is a great way to spend the day!
Know Your Kayak
There are specific kayaks for specific uses or water conditions, so you need to choose your kayak correctly. Some are for the ocean others for going down fast white water rivers or floating on calmer slow moving waters. Some are designed to sit in them while others are designed to sit on top. And there can be different gear needed on a kayak for different uses or conditions like fishing. Choosing the proper kayak and gear is important to remain safe.
Know How to Kayak
It's important to know how to kayak. Paddling techniques, balancing, launching and landing, avoiding mishaps, keeping safe and knowing what to do when something goes wrong are all things a person should know BEFORE venturing off onto the water. Taking a kayaking class, having a friend show you how and researching kayaking skills on the internet are great ways to get started. And you can see some great videos here
Safety Gear
At the minimum always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest or jacket and have an audible device such as a whistle or horn. Not only because it is the law, but it could save your life some day. If you are in distress, having an audible device can help alert people to your situation.
Depending on the type of kayaking and the water conditions you will be in, you may need other kayak safety gear such as a helmet, when white water kayaking, a cockpit cover in rough waters or lighting when kayaking at night. Know your waters before you go and what you will need to be safe and to be in compliance of boating laws. And don't forget a first aid kit.
Wear the Right Clothes and Be Prepared
It is very important to wear the proper clothes to avoid becoming too cold, too hot or uncomfortable and burdensome. Try to wear clothes that make you as comfortable as possible and allows for easy movement while protecting you from the elements. And prepare to get wet, you are kayaking! In hot weather, getting wet can be very nice but when it gets cold it can be dangerous. Waterproof clothing, water shoes, neoprene wear, wet suites and bathing suits are all options for different types of conditions. Be aware of the weather and water conditions and plan appropriately with what you wear. Always bring a change of clothes to get out of the wet ones.
Don't Forget the Water & Food
Kayaking can be strenuous which leads to dehydration and so does just floating around in the sun so bring plenty of water. Don't forget some snacks. it's nice to have something to eat when your energy gets low and your stomach starts growling.
REMEMBER
Learn proper kayaking safety & techniques prior to using a kayak.
Don't kayak alone. Bring a friend.
Avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Do not stand up in a kayak and stay centered.
Adjust seat and foot pegs & make sure your comfortable before starting.
Don't drink or do drugs while kayaking.
Stay away from the wildlife you encounter.
Do not tie up to or tow other kayaks or tow other boats or objects.
Make sure you are in physical shape for the type of kayaking you will be doing.
Carry a first aid kit and proper gear.
Always stay alert while kayaking.
Always be aware of where your kayak is headed.
Do not overload the kayak. Kayaks have weight limits. Check before you load.
Don't drag kayaks across the ground. Having a hole in the bottom of the kayak is a bad thing.
Your safety comes first, before the kayak's.
Our Staff are always eager to help. If you have any questions regarding any of the activities that Sky Lakes Wilderness Rentals provides, please don't hesitate to ask when renting one of our kayak rentals or other items!
KAYAKING VIDEO TIPS
Kayaking Blog and Information Sites