Canoeing Tips 1 - Learn how to swim if you don't know how. This knowledge will help you if your canoe happens to tip over. In addition to learning how to swim, wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times!

Canoeing Tips 2 - Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting wet. Wear stuff that will dry quickly and wear layers. If you head out early in the morning, it may be chilly so a light sweater is a good idea.

Canoeing Tips 3 - Take food and drinks along with you in a water proof container such as a small cooler. Make sure to fasten the cooler to the canoe because if the canoe tips, your cooler may get lost.

Canoeing Tips 4 - Wear plenty of waterproof sunscreen on all exposed skin to prevent getting burnt. A comfortable hat is also good to shade your head and face from the sun. If you wear glasses, or sunglasses - purchase a strap to help keep them on your head. If you hit white water, they might go flying off your face and into the water.

Canoeing Tips 5 - Learn as much as you can about the water you're traveling on. Pay attention to where on the map the rapids and obstacles are so that you will know what you do when you get to them.

Canoeing Tips 6 - Don't forget to take with you - especially on long all day trips on the water - fishing gear, insect repellent, first aid kit, whistle, and additional sunscreen. Also, don't forget to take a trash bag to put all of your trash in. Remember that keeping the river or lake clean means it will be clean for you to come back and enjoy.

Canoeing Tips 7 - The proper way to choose a paddle for your trip is to do the following…place the paddle on the top of your foot while standing up. If the handle part of the paddle reaches a height where you can comfortably rest your chin on it, then it is the right length. If the paddle does not do this, then try one longer or shorter - whatever the case may be.

Canoeing Tips 8 - Be sure to listen to the other person in the canoe as it is a team effort to get down the river or around the lake. The person in the back does the majority of the steering, while the person sitting up front must always be on the lookout for anything in the river that might be in the way, such as a large rock or a stick.

Canoeing Tips 9 - When going through rapids, it is best to get as low in the canoe as possible (kneeling is best), and to sit as still as possible (no leaning as that might tip the canoe). If you are worried about hurting your knees by kneeling in the canoe, purchase a kneeling pad or knee pads before going on your trip.

Canoeing Tips 10 - River canoeing is separated into different class ratings - separating the danger level of the rapids and obstacles that must be gone through on the water. The classes range from Class 1 - or relatively calm water and no obstacles - to Class 6 - which are incredibly dangerous. Not even the bravest and most experienced people will do this class.

Canoeing Links
American Canoeing

Canoe Trips

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