Learning how to do a full spin in a canoe will increase your enjoyment of the sport. There are a few techniques you can practice to perfect a full spin. Make sure you wear an approved flotation device before you go canoeing. The pivot turn is an effective way of maneuvering your canoe with confidence. The pivot takes a combination of power, balance and control to turn successfully. Start at the back of the canoe, and insert your paddle into the water. Turn your body with the canoe until you have gone full-circle. Repeat and practice until you have mastered this technique.
Safety during Inclement Weather
Reduce your risk of capsizing your canoe by leaving the water before an approaching storm. Be prepared for intense lightning, winds and rain. Bad weather can make the waves high enough to capsize your canoe. Thunderstorms and lightning are a dangerous situation where you need to safely get out of the water. Check the weather before your trip to ensure your safety. Thunderstorms often appear without warning so watch the skies while canoeing. Wear a wetsuit and a life jacket when canoeing. If you end up in the water, you might not be able to get back into your canoe.
How to Right your Canoe
If you do find yourself in the water, the best way to get out of the situation is to swim to shore with your canoe. However, if you are not near the shore, then you should try to roll it over to empty the water. Swim underneath the canoe and grip the gunwales to flip it over. Even though this is a difficult maneuver, you should have success if you keep trying. You can also turn the capsized canoe parallel to another canoe to flip it over. Learn where the bow, stern, gunwales and thwarts are located before your canoe trip.
Transporting your new Canoe
Before you buy a new canoe, determine how you will transport it safely to the water. Most people put the canoe on top of their vehicle and tie it down. If you own a truck or SUV, you may be able to fit it in the back. There are countless places to take your canoe for a day of fun.
Canoeing Tips
One of the most important things you should pack for your canoe trip is your cooler. This is where you will place cold items such as drinks, cold cuts and fruits. It is important to bring enough drinking water for your trip. Don’t bring alcoholic beverages since this may impair your ability to safely maneuver your canoe. Plus, it may be against the law to drink onboard your canoe in certain waters. Keep your cellphone wrapped in airtight plastic in case you flip your canoe. Your car keys should also be kept in a watertight container. Expect that you will have to get in the water and dress accordingly. A wet suit is a great way to keep the cold water chill off your skin.
