Some tips for planning your canoe or kayak trip

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Assuming you're a newbie, we congratulate you on taking the plunge into recreational kayaking or canoeing. It can be intimidating, but it is always a great time. The following will outline some the boat and safety related things you should think about before hitting the water.

Pelican 15.5 Green Leisure Canoe Package

We can't outline everything there is to know about the design of boats here, but if you're completely, or even semi-clueless on what kind of boat you need, consult a trusted professional and do some reading. Preferably you'll be able to find someone who isn't looking to sell you a boat. Depending on where you're going and what you want to do with your or kayak in the future, you could end up with a less than ideal choice.
Always try the boat you're considering purchasing if possible. If you can't try the exact canoe or kayak, you should be able to find a similar one to rent or the dealer should have one you can get a feel for.
Seek out a boat show near your area and go to it. Sure, the dealers are looking to sell you a boat, but the environment is much more informative than geared toward selling. Ask questions, get to know seasoned boat owners; you can't go wrong by attending a boat show.
A blem is a canoe or kayak that has a physical imperfection or is just used. Like everybody, you want a good product for the least amount of money. And like every recreational pastime, there are always people looking to upgrade or move on to something else. If you can find an appropriate blem, buy it. Then again, if you find a blem that is not right for what you're looking for, you'll be disappointed if you buy it, no matter how much you save.

After you've chosen your vessel, don't forget to pack an extra paddle or two. There's a famous saying about this, and it is no laughing matter.

Rivers have 'classes' which refer to the level of expertise required for safe navigation. If you're very new, stick to Class 1. For most purposes, though, Class 2 rivers are very appropriate. If you have children and want them to be involved, avoid rivers that are Class 3 or greater.

Don't discount the importance of an appropriate, snug life jacket. Boating fatalities are primarily caused by the absence of a life jacket. Try them on beforehand; ideally you would wear them in the water to get used to floating with a life jacket.

If it's possible, start your boating career on a lake rather than a river. Both adults and children benefit from learning the movement habits of water and those of boats prior to testing their mettle on a river.

Finally, a change of dry clothes, a padded cushion (not your life-jacket) and plenty of clean, potable water will make the trip much more enjoyable for all.

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