Kayak Instruction - Reading the River

Learn how to kayak!  In this installation of the River Guide Series I break down and detail the ins and outs of learning how to read the river. I introduce several concepts and terms to include Finding the V, Boat Angle and Boat Speed. One of the best ways to get kayaking instruction is to be on the water with an experienced instructor. Since that is not always possible, here are a few tips and techniques that will make you a better kayaker. Come along as we paddle down the Union Bridge to Chicken Bridge section of the Haw River at 2.5' on the gauge. I am joined by the Wondering Electrician, Yakkelberry and Rubber Duck Producktions...and the River Prince.

[fayleya]

I go back and re-watch this every year or so, and send it to friends who want to move from sea kayaking and try river paddlling

[jriley]

Only twelve minutes but what a great video. Please keep making these for us novice paddlers. Thanks.

[yakkelberry]

Even I learned tons from this video especially seeing my mis strokes. I hope TONS more of these come along even if i have to be the one showing how NOT to do it.

[maineiacoutdoors]

Hours worth of expert instruction packed into 12 minutes. THANKS Pete! I hope to use this on a river paddle soon.


You and Adam make a cute couple, btw. :D

[ronanrogers]

Great video for a newbie like me. I’ve done motorcycle enduro for decades, and it actually reminded me a lot of how I pick the right line through gnarly terrain, but of course it’s more difficult to do so with water, and the potential downsides are generally greater. I learned a lot from this video, thanks.

[williamcourtney]

Bro, your videos have taught me so much about this sport. The way you explain things is phenomenal. This is seriously one of my favorite channels on here! Thanks for all the work you do, Pete!

[ericlopez]

Went on my first kayaking trip. No preparation or practice. Did 10 miles in a day (snow around us and everything) and fell in the water 4 times. Good times good times.

[MattGoodfellow]

Excellent video, I had no idea how to control entries!

[PracticalOutdoorist]

More instruction on the River Guide Series please. Great explanations.

[burningokane]

Just went kayaking yesterday for the first time and I’m just glad I didn’t get turned upside down or go down rapids backwards!

[thewindroad]

Seriously awesome V tutorial. I can even see them in my dreams now!

[epwlod]

I took my rec\fishing kayak on class 2 rapids with absolutely no experience on rivers and after several errors figured these tips out the hard way.
Wish I watched this first but I think my mistakes are what made it fun and hooked me.

[adulfdabo]

Thanks for uploading.
I just bought a kayak (a crossover) and this video will help me a lot to restart after many years not paddling!
Subscribed.

[Pathstobalance]

Many thanks for this. New to the sport as off this summer, still in the stage of observing and studying rapids. The breakdown and visuals were so helpful! Cheers!

[josephmann]

Went kayaking for my very first time today, and they were small rapids that I encountered at a state park, but I love it!
And I learned the first few rocks really quick, to watch the water and guided myself to the smooth water.
When I was coming up on rocks I had missed, I knew I had to go straight on rather than be sideways if I were to hit.
Have much to learn! But I taught myself some basics today.
Never rolled or fell into the water so that was a plus, but I know that’s not the norm for real kayaking.
I had a blast! Tired after a 10 mile trip I’m not used to doing, but hooked now. So much fun and I want to learn and get better.
Thanks for the video

[Fuzzy]

Hey man this is an awesome video. I have 10 years of kayaking experience and I picked up a few tips here. I float the Haw occasionally, mostly kayak fishing on a sit on top.

[ROZDAB]

Great analysis. Ty for posting and educating all of us interested in this. ✌️

[nenaericksonoakes]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. I've been running low level rapids and accidentily ended up in a bigger one yesterday. Your video helps me understand where I could have done better. Thank you!

[krisgrij]

Thank you so much for the simple and straightforward explanation!

[anselmoreyes]

I was able to go up the Weechee wachee river in florida a lot further than the younger people because I learned paddling techniques and water flow. I still have a long way to go. I have a vanderhunk blufin tandem and I did not flip it and felt more confident. Thank You!