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    Paddlesports Basics

    Hopping on or in a kayak, canoe or paddleboard is a fun, easy and inexpensive way to get out to experience what Pennsylvania's waterways have to offer. 

    Two women wearing life jackets while carrying a kayak to the edge of a lake to prepare to launch.

    Preparing for a Paddling Adventure

    With some basic equipment and a few minutes of preparation and instruction, paddlesports can be as safe as they are fun. 

    Learn about Paddling Safety

    Take a FREE paddling education course to learn tips and tricks for your next adventure.

    Paddlesports Safety

    Paddling Tips

    • Wear your life jacket. 
    • Expect to get wet and dress properly. 
    • Be prepared to swim. If the water looks too hazardous to swim in, don’t go paddling.
    • If you capsize, hold on to your boat, unless it presents a life-threatening situation. 
    • Scout ahead whenever possible. Know the river/waterbody. 
    • Be prepared for the weather. Get a forecast before you go. 
    • Have a float plan, review it with the group and leave it with someone in case of an emergency.
    • Wear wading shoes or tennis shoes with wool, polypropylene, pile, or neoprene socks. 
    • Never take your boat over a low-head dam. Carry (portage) your boat around water you are uncertain of.
    • Never boat alone.  
    • Keep painter lines (ropes tied to the bow) and any other ropes coiled and secured. 
    • Never tie a rope to yourself or to another paddler, especially a child. 
    • Kneel to increase your stability before entering rougher water, like a rapid. 
    • If you collide with an obstruction, lean toward it. 
    • Be sure to leave a float plan. 

    Group Paddling

    While you should never go alone when you get out to enjoy paddlesports, the activity can be even more fun with a group. Planning and ensuring everyone along for the trip understands safety and etiquette ensures you will make the most enjoyable paddling experience. Here are some basic how-to's:

    • Have a float plan, review it with the group and leave it with someone in case of an emergency.
    • Everyone in the group should have the basic equipment for paddling.
    • Unload quickly and keep launch area as clear as possible - because there are several vessels, without taking care, a group can overwhelm the resources of a small launch area and alienate paddlers not in your group
    • Know the skill levels of the other paddlers, and paddle with the level of the lowest skilled paddler.
    • More experienced paddlers take responsibility for watching for hazards and trail direction.
    • As always, everyone should be familiar with the regulations for paddling on PA waters. 
    • All are encouraged to wear a life jacket, and to know when it is a requirement.