Tips for Responsible Kayaking
Advice for Safe and Ethical Paddling for Canoeists and Kayakers
Good paddlers boat responsibly to prevent accidents, respect property and the environment, and avoid conflicts with other boaters.
Now that paddling season is just about here, the ACA (American Canoe Association) urges all paddlers to behave sensibly and ethically. Based on the ACA’s paddling tips, here’s how to be safe, courteous, and ethical on the water.
Safe Paddling
- Obtain a well-fitted , type III or V personal floatation device (PFD), and wear it properly, with zippers zipped, and straps fastened. Before getting in your boat, test to see that your PFD won’t slip off over your head.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and water conditions. Even at the height of summer, the water can be cold enough to cause hypothermia to the capsized paddler, so dress in fabrics that retain body heat.
- Wear appropriate footwear. This will not only keep your feet warm in cold water, but protect them from rocks during portage and low water situations.
- Pack a dry bag with a change of clothes.
- Never paddle alone. Paddle with a group and leave a float plan with a friend or family member.
- Avoid conditions for which you are not prepared-learn about your route in advance.
- Check the weight capacity of your boat and abide by it. Remember that cargo in the hatches can affect your boat’s performance. Distribute weight evenly and securely.
- Match your route to your skill level. Avoid waterways with rapids and hazards beyond your ability to manage them.
- Avoid Strainers (fallen trees) and portage around lowhead dams.
- Don’t paddle under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
- Carry a supply of food and water adequate for the length of your trip.
- Always carry a first aid kit.
- Learn to read the water effectively, know how to steer your boat away from hazards, and learn how to rescue yourself and others.
- Check the weather forecast.
Courteous Paddling
- Obey all rules and regulations including licensing and trespassing
- Respect Private property. Get landowners permission if access points are not on public land.
- Be considerate of others on the water. As on a roadway, look before paddling in reverse, and don’t stop where you will block other boats, especially on narrow waterways. Give anglers a wide berth, and don't scare the fish!
Ethical Paddling
- Leave no trace. Pack your trash, and dispose of it properly. On long trips, know the rules for disposal of human waste. Consult Leave No Trace for details.
- Clean your equipment between trips to avoid introducing non-native species to the environment.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces wherever possible. Minimize damage to the shore when launching, portaging, and scouting.
- Build campfires only in established campfire rings.
- Respect wildlife by keeping your distance. Leave artifacts and natural features undisturbed.
The copyright of the article Tips for Responsible Kayaking in Paddle Boats is owned by Susan Cramer. Permission to republish Tips for Responsible Kayaking must be granted by the author in writing.
