Kayaking Is A Word For Adventure
If adventure is what you seek than Kayaking is the sport for you.
The churning sound of the rushing river, rocks that jut out from foaming rapids and of course the waterfalls that make your blood pump faster than you think it should.
There is also the glass like stillness of a morning lake that can raise your spirit as Gods breath pushes you onward to your destination.
For more than 4,000 years indigenous people living in arctic regions have been taking to the sea in this covered canoe like boat. First used for fishing it has now become popular as an "Extreme Sport".
The attraction to kayaking is the rushing rivers and open waters or beckoning coves and bays that compel people to search for more.
I can remember the first time I took a 50 mile trip down the Russian River. I was in the boy scouts and every summer we went on a week long trip. The river was calm for the most part; the slow and steady flow under a warm summer sun was one of the best experiences of my young life.
Whitewater
A classic whitewater river tour will rush you from the grasp of dangers fingers to the gentle guidance of Mother Nature Herself. Each river is graded from class 1 (the easiest) to class 6 (most difficult).
My first time on rapids was very mild; it was a good start just a class 2. I was in a canoe and was able to see a beautiful riverbank as I learned to paddle.
Ocean
Sea kayaks are the most versatile, sea worthy, and efficient watercraft ever designed. Created by Native Americans hundreds of years ago, these boats are light, stable, easy to paddle, and fast enough to cover considerable distance in a day.
Throughout the United States, Ocean or Sea Kayaking has been gaining popularity. Places like Oregon and Washington State are prime locations to explore. The clear waters of Puget Sound will show you a world where Sea lions roost and Orcas rule.
Surf
Surf kayaking is as extreme as this sport gets! Riding waves, pulling tricks and kicking ass. These guys don't hold anything back as they climb into a smaller, more maneuverable craft and paddle out into whatever the ocean has to give them.
Touring/Expedition
Although this is by far the calmest way to enjoy this pastime that does not make it any less enjoyable, there are many peaceful rivers to fish on or explore.
States like Florida, Virginia and Louisiana have fantastic inlets, streams and rivers that lead through historic swampland with amazing wildlife as well as flora and fauna that will transport you back in time as you travel.
The Kayak
Originally created out of driftwood and seal skin these swift and light boats have gone through quite an evolution in materials without changing its configuration very much.
There are two major configurations of kayaks, the "sit on tops" and the "cockpit style". The names of each of these styles explain the position of the "pilot" or rider.
The ease of straight-line paddling combined with the comfort built into these crafts makes for a great expedition or a stealthy fishing trip.
You want to get a kayak that is well suited for the type of boating you will be doing. This is probably the single most important factor you need to consider.
You want to determine what kind of paddling you will be doing and how often you will be doing it.
There are three structural classifications of kayaks. The rigid or hard shell boats are made up of plastic, fiberglass, Kevlar, carbon fiber or wood. This is the type of kayak that most people think of when they think of a kayak.
Plastic Boats
The least expensive of the kayaks is also the heaviest. They tend to be tough and can take a lot of abuse, however, once they are damaged they are difficult to repair.
Fiberglass Boats
These models are more expensive than the plastic models. Fiberglass is significantly lighter and easier to repair, but they can be easier to damage.
If you have the extra money to spare kayaks made with composites such as Kevlar, graphite and carbon fiber will be lighter and make your time caring them much easier!
Folding Boats
If portability and storage is a concern than a folding kayak is for you. They are made of fabric that is stretched over a wood or aluminum frame and they are amazingly tough, flexible, stable and seaworthy.
The general consensus about folding kayaks is that they lack the speed and performance of a hard shell. Still, they tend to last longer than the typical hard shell and their resale price usually remains higher making their initial price worth the investment.
Inflatable Boats
These boats are also a terrific choice for portability and ease of storage. They are generally the least expensive kayaking option.
An inflatable kayak is easy to get to the water and back as well as a great option for the apartment dweller. After it dries off, you can store it in a basement.
They will hold as much as 500 pounds, carry two adults plus gear and weigh approximately 25pounds itself (depending on the model). Typically they will only need one adult to carry it to the water.
Tip
As important as the structural makeup of the boat is, kayaks are typically classified for the type of boating they are designed to do.
When you are shopping for a kayak you need to anticipate your future paddling situations, then select a boat that should perform well in those situations.
Safety
The Hawaiians where right to say never turn your back on the ocean. Like any sport that involves nature, kayaking requires good judgment and careful preparation. Equipment failures and failures to be equipped cause troubles that are unexpected. How you deal with those issues will make or break a trip.
Preparation is the first and best line of defense. Take care of your gear. Make sure you pack or tie down your kayak properly. This might sound ridiculous but it is easy to take for granted and before you know it you are watching your boat fall off the top of your truck in your rearview mirror.
When you get to the waterfront look over your craft and make sure it is in good shape before you put it in the water. Make sure all the compartments are secure and any goods or gear you might need to take is stowed properly.
Know your itinerary, make sure you plan your trip and tell others where you are going and when you will be back. A trip with clear goals is important, not only so others can know when to expect you but also to help you pace yourself.
Kayaking, hiking or biking no matter what activity you are planning, when ever you are heading out into nature you should have a partner. Not only can it be more fun to have more company it is also a safer way to enjoy nature.
Most importantly you should know your limits and work within yourself. Using your common sense will keep you safe in the long run.
Lessons
Kayaking is not just about getting in a boat and paddling. It is a sport that requires skill, and skill involves preparation. No matter if you are new to the sport or if you have been away for a while lessons are a great way to learn.
A qualified instructor who is certified by the American Canoe Association will give you great advice and make you more confident.
If you don't want to go through classes it is always beneficial to find a local paddling club. Many of them have certified instructors within their ranks and you might be able to get some tips or arrange private lessons.
A guided trip is also a good option. Many can include basic paddling instructions and equipment rental.
Our Russian River trip was a great success and a lot of fun. We camped along the side of the river at night and watched stars and meteor showers, looked for planets, learned about the history of the universe, Sang songs by a campfire and greeted the morning with our paddle in hand. Kayaking continues to be a great way to get exercise as well as see our world in its natural state. I can't wait to see you on the river or out at sea.