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4 Mistakes Every New Kayaker Makes... And How To Avoid Them
Are you a beginning kayaker? Here are four common mistakes brand new kayakers sometimes make that can, at minimum, take the fun out of your first kayak trip.
Goose Hummock wants your day on the water to be safe and fun!
1. Don’t Choose Big Water for Your First Kayak Trip
Unless you’re going to stay right along the shore and you’re in a protected area without wind or waves, don’t take your first kayak outing on big water! The ocean comes to mind right away. But this can include any large lake that can produce large waves in stiff wind. For your first outing you’ll have a lot more fun and be much safer on a small, calm lake that’s warm enough for swimming.Once you have some experience, know self-rescue skills and have your paddle strokes down, then you can start to venture out on bigger water.
2. Don’t Start Out Kayaking in Cold, Blustery Weather
Kayaking is a great way to get outside, but if you’re a beginner, you’ll enjoy it so much more when it’s warm and sunny, with just enough breeze to cool the air a bit.If you choose a cold, blustery day for your first try kayaking, the wind and waves will make it harder. It’ll also make it less enjoyable. And most beginning kayakers don’t have the proper gear to stay warm and dry in nasty weather.
3. Don’t Fail to Bring Sunscreen, Lip Balm and Water
Even if it’s an overcast day, you can get major sunburn out on the water. So use sunscreen on any exposed skin, including skin that may be covered by a wide-brimmed hat but can still get hit by the sun’s reflection on the water.Don’t forget lip balm and plenty of water. Bring a dry bag to keep all these items in one spot. You may want to include some snacks, too.
4. Don’t Fail to Wear Your PFD (Life Jacket)
While kayaking is a very safe activity, anytime you’re on the water there’s risk. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, always wear your PFD in a kayak.No one plans on an emergency happening, and if you’re in that situation it’ll be too late to put your life jacket on. Keeping your head above water is just one less thing you’ll have to worry about in the event of a capsize when your PFD is on.
