There is nothing like the quiet solitude of paddling through a remote backcountry where the only sound is the “J” stroke your paddle is making as it slices through the waters of a calm lake. Canoeing offers the perfect way to connect with nature and explore new landscapes. Easy to learn and an activity you can enjoy your entire lifetime, here are a few tips to make your first canoe excursion a success.
Safety First
There are a few items that are important to have before setting out on your first adventure. A PDF (personal floatation device) is at the top of the list. It should be always worn, even if the water looks calm. It only takes a second for an accident to happen and being prepared can be the difference between life and death.
There should be a safety kit in every canoe. This consists of a whistle to alert others nearby to your location in the event of an emergency along with a bailer and sponge to get water out of your boat.
Additionally, be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, spare clothing, a first aid kit, some snacks and plenty of water. These items will keep you safe from harmful sun exposure and UV rays that reflect off the water, as well as dehydration and any minor injuries that could happen along the way.
It is also a great idea to get familiar with your canoe before you head out on a trip. Every canoe is different, both in how it feels/tracks on the water and its weight distribution. Practice getting in and out of your canoe and take a few test runs to help minimize any panic in the backcountry. It is also a good idea to practice tipping and recovering your canoe in shallow water, so you are ready for any eventuality on your trip.
Become One with Your Paddle
A paddle is an extension of your arm, and its use controls the movement and direction your canoe travels. If you are just starting, it is best to implement proper technique from the beginning, so you don’t have to unlearn any bad habits. There are some excellent videos online and any book by Bill Mason, the legendary Canadian canoeist, is well worth a read.
There are several different strokes to master. The “J” stroke provides both forward motion and steering action in one smooth operation and is typically used by solo paddlers. Depending on water conditions, it can also be necessary to paddle on both sides of the canoe to establish stability underneath the canoe. If you need extra stability, you can also try paddling on your knees while navigating rougher water. Other useful strokes to master include the Inside Draw, Sweep Stroke, Backwater Stroke and Standing Pry.
While it is recommended that you start canoeing solo to have more control and establish your rhythm with the boat, if you do have a partner, make sure you paddle in sync. Whoever is at the bow of the canoe (the front) should set the pace and the person at the stern (the back) should match and support that pace. Stay in communication with one another to ensure you switch sides at the same time and maximize your momentum. If you can help it, keep your paddle shafts vertical. This will help get the most power out of your strokes. The solo strokes you have learned can also be put into use when paddling with a partner.
Dress for the Water, Not the Air
You may be all set to enjoy the first warm spring day on the river, but most likely, the water will not have warmed up quite as quickly. When suiting up for your canoeing trip, dress for the water, not the air.
Just remember, canoeing on a river or any form of moving water means you will likely get wet. It is common to have a tip or two while you are getting familiar with the sport, and any rough water will also cause some splashing or overflow.
Start with some thermal base layers or a fleece-lined jacket and add a weatherproof jacket and pants to repel moisture. Avoid jeans and cotton clothing, both of which hold dampness which can lead to hypothermia.
If you are concerned about your belongings getting wet, look into a small waterproof bag to store your valuables and have a way to clip it to the canoe so it doesn’t go missing if you tip.
Watch the Horizon and the Weather
Wide horizon lines can be deceiving when you are in a canoe. They may look relatively easy to navigate but could have a more significant drop or undertow than you think. The hydraulics underneath may take hold of your boat, making it difficult to paddle out of rough water if you are not careful.
There will certainly be times to relax and enjoy a good book or some light fishing while floating down a calm part of the river but stay cautious and be prepared to shift gears when necessary.
The same rules apply to the weather. Don’t be complacent. Always check weather reports if you can before setting out and keep an eye on the sky as you paddle, watching for a spot to land on shore if heavy winds, rain or lightning appear, all of which can develop quickly on a large lake.
Plan Before Paddling
One of the best things you can do to prepare for your first canoeing trip is research. Read up on the area you will be venturing through for climate, wildlife and terrain information. And speaking of wildlife, if you come across any in the water as you paddle, count yourself lucky but give these animals a wide berth. You can also invest in a waterproof map, compass or thwart-mounted GPS to bring with you to help keep you on your route and provide some peace of mind while you are out on the water. Backroad Maps carries several foldable, waterproof maps ideally suited to canoe adventures.
If you are still unsure about whether you are ready to take on a canoeing trip, you can always research and find canoeing lessons in your area as well. There are plenty of outdoor resources and experts out there to help you feel prepared and comfortable for your first journey.
As you plan your outdoor adventures for the year, keep canoeing in mind! With only a few essential items and a bit of research, you will be ready to take on new waters and enjoy the scenery in no time.
Additional Safety Tips
- Your safety in a canoe is directly related to your ability to hang onto your canoe if it capsizes.
- Some swimming experience and common sense are prerequisites for paddlers.
- Knee pads and/or foot braces can make all the difference for comfort on long paddling days.
- Canoe carts are an excellent accessory but only work on certain portage trails. They are prohibited on some routes or there are width/weight restrictions so plan to check ahead before heading out.
- Do not attempt to cross large bodies of open water. Keep to the lee shore (the shore the wind reaches first). A little extra paddling never killed anyone; in fact, it might save you!
- Leave whitewater canoeing to the experts. If you really want to partake in this type of water adventure, join an organized club. These folks never travel alone.
Check out our handy checklist for first-time paddlers!
Scan this QR code or click on the button below to access the Backroad Maps essential canoe trip equipment list.
Do you have a tip to share with us? Let us know or share your paddling adventures with us on Instagram using #brmblife for a chance to be featured in our feed!You can easily find your way to the best paddling spots in Canada with the help of our Waterproof Maps, Backroad Mapbooks or our new IOS and Android App and Web Map. No other recreation map lists as many campsites or provides you with the same level of detail. We give you the scoop on portages, campsites, put-ins, take-outs, route descriptions and more!