Currents and Winds

When dealing with a non-negligible wind or current situation, you’ll probably think it will be fun to go with it and have a good ride. That’s fine if you are making a one-way trip, but if you are making a round-trip back to your starting point, this is a very bad idea. The boost can carry you much further than you realize, and then you’ll have to fight against it all the way back. Your fun day out can turn into a miserable slog.

It’s much better and safer to head into the current on the outbound leg, and let it carry you home on the return.


Your new boat probably came with a paddle. I’ve never seen a boat come with a good paddle. It is just a starter, to get you going. Get a good paddle that is the right size for you. It will make a world of difference. Keep the old one for a spare. Rule of thumb: your paddle should be about your height. If you install a thick seat cushion, you might want to go a little longer even.

I regard my paddle as an emergency signalling device as well, which is why I like the yellow color pictured, especially if your boat is some camouflage shade of green.

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