Encountering a Shark While Kayaking

Yes, believe it or not, even in something as big as a kayak, it is still possible to get bumped, chased, circled or even punctured by predators such as sharks. Although, it is not very often that this happens, you should be prepared for the possibility of a hostile situation or encounter with an uninvited predator. Kayaking is all about taking in and enjoying all that nature has to offer. Just make sure you know what to expect in these types of watery environments and how to be more prepared.

Kayak Lights & Kayak Lighting

Many kayakers enjoy having a paddle during the night hours of the summer months. As summer turns to fall and the days begin to grow shorter while the sun begins to set earlier, it becomes more likely for kayakers who ventured out in the late afternoon to get caught in the darkening light because they did not consider how dark it could become and how far they might have been from their landing spots. Similarly, fishers hoping to get an early start on the day may begin their expeditions with kayak launches before the sun has risen. There are other aesthetic reasons why kayakers may venture out when the sun is leaving or is yet to arrive. The cool night air, the shining stars and moon, or the simplicity of the still evening water can entice and enchant any number of kayakers. The sun heats the air during the day, resulting in wind on the water, and paddling in the night time can provide kayakers with rare opportunities to explore quiet waters. No matter whether your goal is to paddle out into a lake by moonlight or are simply looking to have all of your supplies at hand if you are embarking upon a kayak trip in the late afternoon, it might be a good idea to add lights to your supply of essential kayak equipment.

K-9 Kayaking: Dog Paddling

Dogs are out most loyal and lovable friends. The average dog is an enthusiastic partner in any outdoor endeavor. Whether you are tackling a steep ridge or taking a multi-week backpacking adventure, your dog is thrilled to be joining you. Many outdoors enthusiasts are also dog people, and some manufacturers even product dog-specific technical equipment for those dedicated to including their best friend. Climbing harnesses, sneakers, snow gear, and life jackets are all available for dogs. Many kayakers haven’t really considered bringing their dogs along for the ride, but it can be a fun and memorable trip for those willing to work out the details.

Kayaking with Kids – A Practical Guide to Kayaks, Gear & Having Fun

There are not many sports as versatile and exciting as kayaking. Something about moving through the open waters with the wind in your hair and the sun at your back is so appealing to so many people. Not only is kayaking a great, low-impact work-out, but it allows the kayaker the ability to get away into the outdoors, observing nature at her most majestic.

Kayak Towing Methods & Equipment

It is important to know how to tow when you are on the water in a kayak. When you have the skills and ability to help someone out of whatever trouble they happen to be in on the water via pulling them through your kayak, you become an important and valuable kayaker with a skillset that can come handy in a variety of situations. Of course, the need to tow someone with your kayak might not be a common occurrence but the first time you find yourself having to make use of this ability you might find yourself thankful for being prepared and having the necessary equipment with you along with a knowledge of how to use it effectively. The two main situations during when you might have to tow someone are in open water and in white water conditions; both conditions are very different from each other and this article will discuss the situation that is far more common between the two: white water kayak towing. Some of the techniques discussed in the article will be relevant to paddlers who sit in and who sit on, but some of the techniques will only be useful to paddlers who sit on their kayaks.