Taking an unplanned dip is something most kayakers come to expect. But getting back on board can be a challenge, depending on the conditions. Below are a couple of techniques to help get you back in the saddle and ready to paddle after a nasty kayak fall.
Self Rescue
Also known as a Wet Entry, the Self Rescue is, as the name suggests, getting yourself back into your kayak after capsizing or tipping over.
- Right your kayak.
- Pull yourself up onto the kayak horizontally, belly over the cockpit. Hold this position until the boat is flat and steady.
- Using the hand facing the bow, grab the near side of the cockpit.
- Slide your opposite hip (nearest the stern) into the cockpit, then turn and quickly drop your butt into the seat. Square your hips into the cockpit.
- Lean back enough to bring one leg into the kayak. Lean forward to realign your center of gravity. Take your time and keep relaxed.
- Lean back again, and bring the other leg in. Once your leg is in, reacquire your balance and settle back in.
- Reposition your spray skirt, then bail or pump out any remaining water, if needed.
Upside Down Reentry and Roll
This technique has few steps but is something you’ll want to practice in calm conditions rather than try for the first time out in the open water. You’ve capsized and been dumped out of your kayak, what next?
- Orient your kayak. You will want to roll into the breaking waves so, if your left hand roll is strongest, then point the port side of the boat to the waves.
- Swim under the boat, facing the rear. Reverse roll (somersault) your body, sliding your feet over your head and into the cockpit.
- Settle your feet and hips into the cockpit.
- Roll up using your preferred roll technique.
The benefit of this method is that you can save valuable time fighting to turn your kayak upright in the water and just get in, flip, and move on. In cold or rough waters, time may be an important factor in getting out of the water and moving to safety.
An important thing to remember is to keep calm when getting back into the kayak. Trying to jump in without steadying your boat first could just dump you out again. Take your time with each step and steady yourself as you go. These are great skills to practice in calm waters and with friends. Once you master these techniques, they will become second nature and will allow you to self-rescue with ease.
Wrapping up our post on proper kayak fall recovery, you might also like: What to Look for When Choosing a Kayak or Kayaking Terms for Beginners!
Featured Image from Mika Korhonen/Unsplash
