The BKC Blog

Especially for beginning kayakers and anglers, the threat of tipping over your boat is daunting and possibly discouraging. While even a seasoned kayaker still has a small chance of this happening due to conditions on the water, there are several techniques you can practice and get experience with to decrease the chances of taking a spill.

Conditions that Cause a Kayak to Tip

Generally, kayaks are safe and don’t just tip over for no reason. Most of the time when someone experiences this, it’s due to a lack of balance or conditions on the water outside of their control.

For example, it’s rather difficult, even for a beginner, to tip over in a recreation kayak on a calm river. A sporting kayak going up against strong rapids or out on a choppy ocean runs a greater risk of tipping, regardless of skill level, because it takes more skill to navigate those conditions. It can also be more difficult to control your boat if it’s super windy out, as those winds affect the water significantly.

Aside from weather conditions, if you’re new to kayaking there is a learning curve in navigating how to balance and paddle on the water. If you’re in shallower water with a larger boat, you could run up against the river bed, and that stalling tends to throw newer boaters off balance. Without the experience on how to paddle out of getting stuck, especially if the current picks up a bit, one naturally runs the risk of tipping over.

Seasoned kayakers who are taking their first stabs at angling can also run into an issue with tipping. Having to multitask and focus on the mechanics of kayaking and fishing at once is a very different experience, and it throws some off. Especially if a bite is taking considerable effort to reel in, and one hasn’t anchored correctly, that angler could easily tip over, even in deeper water.

Tips to Correct & Prevent Kayak Tipping

Learning how to stabilize and paddle effectively, along with the conditions that are ideal for the type of experience you’re looking for, go a long way in preventing a kayak from tipping. Here are some strategies and recommended practices to consider in learning how to navigate kayaking or angling:

• Pick the right kayak. When shopping a kayak, pick one that will be the most stable. Talk to experienced kayakers and dealers to educate yourself on what features make a kayak stable. For example, features like the size of the kayak, construction type/hull material: roto molded single piece, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) materials contribute to making kayaks more stable. The right kayak will help you get the hang of maneuvering on the water.
• Distribute your equipment evenly. This ensures that your kayak is well-balanced and you won’t be battling with your own boat in order to get where you’re going.
• Practice the low-brace method. This stroke is valuable when you’re tipped nearly over on one side. You use the paddle to push into the water the way you’re leaning, and tilt your body the opposite way, leveraging the water & paddle momentum to balance your boat. Remember to keep your hand placement and posture aligned!
• Practice the high-brace method. This stroke requires you to brace with your feet and twist your upper body away from the direction you’re tipping, and then dip the paddle out in front of you to stabilize your boat. This is a helpful stroke if you’ve wobbled a bit and need to regain balance, as opposed to the low-brace method which is for when you’re about to tip over.
• Add outriggers. Particularly for anglers, these add an extra level of security and peace of mind when reeling in a challenging fish.
• Paddle away or directly towards big waves. Particularly for ocean kayakers, you’re more likely to capsize from a wave hitting you from the side. Getting it behind or in front of you is more stable.
• Check weather reports. High winds and surf, along with other stormy conditions, can make it increasingly difficult to paddle effectively. Know your comfort level and stay home if you aren’t prepared for the elements that day.

Regardless of your comfort level in a kayak, you should always be wearing or have easily accessible a personal floatation device. This is the best way to aid your recovery if and when you do tip over.

Kayaking is a great sport that allows you to explore nature in a totally new way. Whether you’re out on the ocean, going downstream on a river, or simply paddling around a lake, it always leads to an exciting adventure and fun memories.

That being said, it can be intimidating to take up the sport if you’ve never done it before. It’s easier than you think, though, especially if you have some friends to start out with. Here are some of our introductory tips for a great kayaking experience if you’re a ‘newbie’!

How Do You Start Kayaking?

A great way to dip your toe into the kayaking world is to rent or borrow a kayak from a more seasoned friend, or sign up for a tour or class on the water. In the latter scenario, all essentials and materials will be provided for you, along with some basic maneuvering techniques and navigation tips if you take a kayaking class. This will help you figure out if it's really for you before you go and buy all the equipment on your own. 

For first timers, the easiest way to enter your kayak is from a shore. In this scenario, you’re able to get your kayak into shallow water, straddle it, and use your legs to push off. Be careful not to drag or scratch your hull too much, and never be afraid to ask a friend to go with you until you’re more comfortable going it alone!

Beginner Kayaking Must-Haves:

Regardless where you’re starting your kayaking adventure (e.g. river, lake, ocean), there are a few essentials that you’ll want to have with you once you’re on the water:

• Correctly sized paddle-- while this may seem intuitive, having a paddle that is correctly sized makes a huge difference in your kayaking experience. You should take into consideration the width of your boat and your height when choosing a kayak paddle.
• PFD (Personal Flotation Device)-- whether you’re on the river, a lake, or the ocean, being properly prepared for an unexpected dunk is key.
• Bilge Pump-- this is a tool used to bail excess water out of the bottom of your boat. It’s helpful in the case of a large splash and handy in emergency situations.
• Dry bags-- these are where you’ll store personal items that you don’t want getting wet. Anything from your phone, spare set of clothes, or safety equipment!
• Weather-appropriate clothing-- whether it’s adding a vest or jacket in the winter or a hat and sunscreen in the summer, be sure you’re protecting yourself from the elements while on the water.
• Rashguard top-- this is a great layer for both warmer and cooler weather, and it ensures you a full range of motion with no discomfort while paddling.
• Safety Equipment-- a first aid kit, water, snack, and navigation tool are essential tools to pack along when you’re preparing to kayak.

As a beginner kayaker, being adequately prepared will help make the experience an enjoyable one. Start slow - to allow yourself to gain more confidence - and with each experience out on the water, you’ll begin to feel more and more like a seasoned kayaker!

A great way to combine your water sports is to take up kayak fishing. With the benefits of these combined activities, you’re able to get the most out of your time on the water. Even if you’re an experienced fisher or kayaker independently, it requires a different set of skills to be skilled at kayak fishing. Read on for some tips & tricks to improve or cultivate this sport!

Boating & Gear Recommendations for Kayak Fishing

To have the most successful kayak fishing adventure, being equipped with the proper gear and vessel are important to bring along. You don’t want to worry about where to fit your rods and bait once you’re out on the water, or struggle to balance your kayaking gear when actively reeling in a fish.

In terms of kayak features, here are some helpful ones to consider:

• Sit-on-top design. This allows you a better vantage point, and easier re-positioning as you pivot cast-off angles or have to quickly stand to reel-in a fish.
• Multiple rod holders. Come prepared for reeling in any sized fish! These are handy for organizing and storing any extra rods you bring along on your trip, saving you the trouble of being under-equipped.
• Dry-Hatch or enclosed storage. This is helpful to keep extras of any materials or gear you have on hand, as well as keep safe the items you don’t want getting wet or damaged while out on the water.
• Secured deck storage. For the items that you need to have easily at your disposal, such as your tackle box, it’s important to have this storage area tied down with something like a bungee cord. This prevents any risk of losing or ruining those items if they fall off while kayaking.
• Proper paddle or retractable pedal propeller. You want to be able to maneuver efficiently and comfortably, so choosing a paddle that is proportional to the size of your boat, accommodates for your paddling style, and reaches the water is key. 250 cm is a recommended starting point, or finding a kayak with a hands-free propulsion device, like the pedal propeller, so you don’t have to worry about storing the paddle once you’ve found a good fishing spot.

Don’t forget to dress for the occasion! Whether you’re on the water in the winter, summer, or both, make sure you’re dressed for success. Sunscreen, water, a personal flotation device (life jackets & vests) for safety, and either lightweight or thermal waterproof gaiters are must-haves for any kayak-fishing outing.

Kayak Fishing Navigation & Positioning Tricks

Whether you’re a new or seasoned angler, there’s always more to learn about how to have a successful kayak-fishing outing. Here are some general aspects of the sport to consider while you’re out on the water.

• Some find it helpful to bring along a GPS or fish-finder tool to help streamline and organize their trips. There are mounts for either of these that allow you to customize your vessel, but knowing what kind of trip you’re looking for and how much time you want to spend on the water is helpful to plan out before-hand.

• It will be to your advantage to learn to paddle and cast one-handed. This may take some getting used to, especially if you’re more familiar with casting from the bank, but starting out by anchoring or keeping close to the shoreline at first can help. It’s also good to understand that casting and reeling in your line can effectively steer for you in certain situations--you’ll naturally be pulled slightly in the direction from which you cast, so keep that in mind when you’re doing so.

• What some new anglers don’t realize is that your feet can be helpful assets while kayak fishing. Some use them as rudders to steer and drift on the water, others anchor with them, and you can also navigate with them by pushing off of stumps or other obstacles while your hands are busy getting your catch. This can be a full body activity, so make sure your kayak allows you the freedom to reposition easily.

At the end of the day, make sure you’re getting what you want out of your angling expedition. Whether it’s relaxation or a new challenge, you should be set with the kayak, tools, and knowledge to enjoy nature your way. Happy fishing!

Whether you’re kayaking for recreational purposes, to fish, or a little bit of both, it’s important to get a good understanding of the water you’re traversing.

While it may not seem extremely different from daytime kayaking, night kayaking is more challenging than you’d anticipate. Even if the waterways are the same and you’ve traveled a familiar route before, it’s still going to require a different set of skills and feel quite different after sunset.

In this respect, it’s important to come prepared for your trip and be prepared to light and conduct yourself accordingly – whether your night kayaking adventure is intentional or if you’re daytime trip went longer than expected! Read on for essential tips to know before kayaking at night.

Know Before You Go: Be Prepared for Night Kayaking

Whether you are going out with the intention of being on the water past dark, or if you feel there’s a chance your trip will run long, here are some things to consider before leaving the house for any kayaking adventure:

• Plan. Plan. There is nothing more important when navigating in the dark than having done your homework and properly prepared before you even get near the water. Even if you’ve done the same paddle countless times, you must consider that the water and its paths will look different in the dark.
• Prepare to be out longer than you think. Even if you know you don’t want to be out past sundown, it’s better to be ready for it just in case something comes up that extends your trip.
• Check your lights before you leave the house. Simply turn them on and off as you’re putting your gear together, and pack them strategically. The last thing you need is struggling to find your lighting gear or finding out that it isn’t working once you actually need it.
• Do your research. While it might not be very intuitive, it is legal to kayak at night. Unless your state or preferred route has specific postings or regulations in place preventing or discouraging people from paddling past dark, you’re more than likely good to go.

Best Practices on the Water for Night Kayaking

While preparing and planning before starting your night kayaking adventure is important, it’s only half the battle. Here are some things to consider and mentally prep for while you’re actually on the water:

• Make yourself seen. You probably aren’t the only person out on the water, so you’ll need to be seen by other kayakers and boaters. It can be helpful to have different colored lights on your left/right to flash when moving in that direction, along with 360^o light elevated from the deck of the kayak. Flood lights, reflective flags, and kayak lighting kits can also be helpful in increasing visibility.
• Pay attention to important landmarks. Even if you have a GPS for added and extra security, it’s a good idea to stay alert and also be tracking where you are visually. We definitely recommend keeping a GPS handy as they save you a lot of trouble, especially if you’ve not paddled in that area before.
• Turn on your lights BEFORE it gets dark. You’ve already made sure that things are charged, but fumbling around on your boat in darkness is a sure-fire way to find yourself falling as opposed to kayaking. Hedge your bets and get stuff out and set-up before you lose all sunlight.
• Beware of waves. This is specifically for ocean kayakers, but it’s important to understand how water and light interact at night vs in the day, as things can get distorted at night. Watch your angles, as if you misjudge a wave’s size, you run the risk of being rolled.
• Trust your gut. If at any point in your preparation or paddling that “this doesn’t seem like a good night to go” then it’s not a good night to go. Simple as that.

At the end of the day, night kayaking is really fun and can be rewarding. It’s more than likely less crowded, and the fish bite just as much as on early morning trips. The quiet, calming environment, the nighttime views, and the angle fishing can’t be beat, so give it a try if you’re up for it! Just be careful, prepare properly, and know your limits.

Whether you enjoy solo or group kayak adventures, there are numerous boat styles to meet your needs. One of the more common questions that comes up, however, is whether to invest in a single kayak or tandem kayak if you plan to use the craft for both group and individual trips. Brooklyn Kayak Company has compiled some facts, figures, and features to consider when making this purchase to ensure your kayaking needs are met.

Single Kayaks

As the name implies, a single kayak is a kayak boat built to only seat one person. Options include sit-in, sit-on-top, pedal, paddle, different sizes, and varying hull designs depending on what adventure you plan to use your kayak for, e.g. fishing, travel or touring, exercise, or just recreational paddling. The freedom of the waters are yours, and yours alone, with a single kayak – you decide the what, where, and how!

Pros

Single kayaks tend to be smaller and more easily transportable, both by car and by hand, due their shorter and more compact frame. It is also lighter than its tandem counterpart, which for some may make it easier to handle when loading and unloading your kayak alone. Solo kayaks are also fast and easier to maneuver in the water-- you don’t have to worry about synchronizing paddle movements to get where you’re going, and it takes less correction and precise steering to move where you need to as well. So anglers wanting to get into those nooks where the fish are biting should be no problem.

Cons

While the idea of enjoying the freedom of the open waters alone is appealing to many, some may feel intimidated to ‘go it alone’. It may be easier for an experienced boater to make their way around steering a single kayak; however, some beginners find it difficult to learn from watching someone in a different boat. In this case, manning a single kayak by themselves might steepen the learning curve. Solo kayaking is just that: solo. You are on your own to do all the paddling, pedaling, maneuvering, steering – and if you want to enjoy kayaking with your family or friends, they will need their own kayaks.

Tandem Kayaks

As you may have guessed, a tandem kayak is one that holds two (or three) people in one boat. Tandems are typically larger, heavier vessels, but also come with options for sit-in, sit-on-top, pedal, paddle, different hull designs, and different sizes. Tandem kayaks are great for experiencing your water adventure with your family or friends – whether for recreation or serious angler fishing.

Pros

The biggest advantage to tandem kayaks is there are two people to not only share in the fun of your water adventure, but to share in paddling, pedaling, maneuvering, steering. So when one gets tired, the other can take over. Tandem boats are also sometimes easier for beginners, as you have a helpful partner with you the whole way. It can also be easier on your wallet to just deal with one boat as opposed to two. There are some tandem kayak models that come with an adjustable/removable second seat, so you’re able to have the best of both worlds. But, you can actually go solo in a tandem kayak by operating the tandem from the back seat and adding some gear to the front of the kayak to distribute the weight evenly for balance and stability.

Cons

Probably one of the biggest disadvantages is not having the freedom you would have in a single kayak. While it is only one boat, tandem kayaks are a bit heavier and not as easy to transport or maneuver. You also have to be aware of how your partner is rowing and moving in order to avoid going in circles the whole trip. To successfully navigate a 2-person kayak, you and your partner need synchronicity in both mind and body to avoid arguments, loss of friendship, or a divorce! Also, if you do try to ‘go it alone’ in a tandem kayak, just be careful as it may change the balance and stability of your vessel.

In summation, both boats are good for different strokes. When choosing your kayak, keep in mind your budget, your skill level, and how you want to use your kayak. Brooklyn Kayak Company has some great models of both single and tandem kayaks for you to explore, so be sure to check out the one that best fits your style!

Humans have been paddling kayaks for hundreds – possibly even thousands – of years. But we’ve only been pedaling kayaks for about 20  — in 1997, a kayak company in California revolutionized the sport by creating the first pedal drive attachment for kayaks. Ever since then, recreational boaters and kayak fishermen alike have been arguing the pros and cons of pedal kayaks versus paddle kayaks.

The “paddle vs. pedal” debate is an important one to consider when purchasing a kayak, especially if you’re planning to fish. In order to help with that decision, we’ve listed the advantages of a paddle kayak versus a pedal kayak.

Paddle Kayak Pros

The more traditional of the two, paddle kayaks present some old-school benefits over pedal kayaks.

1. Stealth

A paddle creates less water disturbance than a pedal, making paddle kayaks quieter and less obtrusive than pedal kayaks. This is a key advantage for anglers looking to sneak up on easily-startled fish.

2. Access to Shallow Water

Pedal kayaks need more underwater clearance, lest they stir up mud, tree branches and other aquatic debris. Paddle kayaks, however, can glide in only inches of water, suiting them to out-of-the-way spots that pedal kayaks just can’t reach.

3. Easy Navigation

A paddle kayak allows you a certain amount of maneuverability that a pedal kayak does not. If you’re looking to navigate tricky shorelines, sharp river bends, or rocky coasts, a paddle kayak may be for you.

Pedal Kayak Pros

Buying a pedal kayak – or even simply adding a pedal drive to your current boat – can give you a technological edge over paddle kayaks.

1. Speed

It’s often said that the most successful competitive anglers are the ones who get to prime fishing spots quickest. Thus, the biggest advantage of pedal kayaks is that they travel faster than paddle kayaks. A pedal kayak lets you get down to business, rather than spending half the day paddling out to your favorite spot.

2. Efficiency & Endurance

Pedal kayaks take advantage of the powerful muscle groups in your legs, rather than those in your arms and shoulders. This makes multi-day treks and all-day fishing trips easier to handle than with a paddle kayak.

3. Hands-Free Access

One of the biggest benefits of a pedal kayak is that it allows you to keep your hands free. Without the burden of a paddle, you’re able to bait a hook, cast a line, or simply reach for your water bottle anytime you want.

Even though there are die-hard devotees on both sides of the “paddle vs. pedal” debate, choosing a paddle kayak or a pedal kayak is mostly a matter of personal preference. This list will help you prioritize your needs and make the best decision for you — just know that you’ll have to defend your side!

Are you an angler addicted to gear? Do you bring more than you need? We know you need the right kayak fishing accessory for each situation.

Kayak fishing is an exciting departure from dock fishing — the maneuverable boat allows you to explore everything from the nooks and crannies of a shoreline to the calm center of a lake, revealing new places to drop a line.

But before you set off with your kayak and rod, there are a few more accessories to consider. With that in mind, here are five must-have accessories for the optimal kayak fishing trip.

Must-Have Kayak Fishing Accessories

1. Fishing Paddle

The best  fishing kayak paddles are lightweight, allowing you to spend a day paddling and casting lines without fatiguing your arms. They should also have anti-slip grips to provide added control in the water. Finally, the blades should be durable enough to push off rocky shorelines and lake bottoms (and to help unsnag fishing line from tree branches.)

2. Paddle Leash

Now that you have the ideal kayak fishing paddle, you don’t want it drifting off the first time you go to grab your rod. Enter the paddle leash — it keeps your paddle attached to your kayak for worry-free fishing. Just adjust the collar around the shaft of your paddle and clip the other end to the hull of your kayak. You can even leave it clipped to the boat for easier setup on your next fishing trip.

3. Kayak Cooler

No kayak fishing trip is complete without a sturdy cooler to keep fish (and recreational drinks) ice cold. Look for thick, insulated walls and UV-resistant materials that will stand up to long hours in the sun. Just make sure not to mix up the fish and the drinks!

4. Dry Bags

Between the splashing of the paddle and the splashing of your potential catches, your gear is guaranteed to get wet. Protect anything that isn’t waterproof by sealing it in a dry bag. Roll the top of the bag down and clip it in place to keep your electronics, food and clothing safe and dry.

5. Kayak Cart

Finally, you need a way to shuttle all of your kayak fishing gear – as well as the boat itself – between your car and the water. A kayak cart will do the trick. Easy assembly and all-terrain wheels will keep you from wearing yourself out before you even hit the water. They’ll also save your kayak from scraping across a parking lot or bumpy shoreline.

Whether you’re a beginning or a seasoned angler, these kayak fishing accessories will have you water-worthy in no time. With the addition of a good rod and a stable fishing kayak, you’ll be ready to pack up and leave the dock behind.

Tips on Choosing a Kayak

Buying a kayak is an exciting prospect. It’s your gateway to morning workouts on the water, weekend explorations at the local lake, or an angler fishing adventure down the river. But it’s also an investment — you want to know that you’ll get your money’s worth. So how do you choose the best kayak for you? Here we provide a few things to consider:

1. What’s the best kayak for where you’ll be paddling?
2. Is a sit-on-top or a sit-in kayak better for you?
3. What is the best kayak shape for you?
4. What activity will you use your kayak for?
5. Will you want a single kayak or a tandem kayak?
6. What about a pedal kayak?

Here some tips on how to choose the best kayak for you and the experience you’re looking for.

What’s the best kayak for where you’ll be paddling?

Though kayaks aren’t usually classified by water type, thinking about what kind of experience you want to achieve can help you answer the other questions on this list and find the best kayak for you.

Do you envision exploring the coastline of a beach, or the quiet backwaters of a sheltered pond? Will there be wind and waves? What about sharp bends that could cause you to tip over? These questions will help determine the stability, durability, and accessibility of your kayak.

What will you use your kayak for?

Kayaks present a wealth of options for outdoor activity, so it’s helpful to narrow down how you might be using your kayak.

1. Will you be fishing? Some anglers prefer to fish in a kayak so they can not only reach the tricky areas that motorboats can’t, but also because BKC kayaks feature 5 different rod holders for fishermen to choose from! Additionally, a kayak is far less expensive than a motorboat.
2. Will you be exercising? Kayaking offers heart-health benefits and full body toning, making it an ideal form of exercise.
3. Will you be relaxing? Many kayakers view their boat as an opportunity to de-stress and enjoy some quiet time in nature. It can also provide a chance to get out with friends or bond with other kayak enthusiasts.

Kayaks aren’t one size fits all, so it’s important to consider how you’ll be using your boat when searching for the best kayak for you.

Is a sit-on-top or sit-in kayak better for you?

Sit-on kayaks are generally considered to be the best kayaks for beginners. They’re stable, easy to get on and off, and self-draining, making them ideal for recreational use. However, be prepared for a little spray — the exposed seat means that you’ll always get wet while paddling.

Sit-in kayaks provide more protection from the elements, making them the best kayaks for longer trips and cooler temperatures. They also offer more efficient paddling and faster speeds than sit-on kayaks. However, the cockpit may flood if you capsize, making for a more difficult exit.

What is the best kayak shape for you?

The shape of your kayak will affect how fast it moves, how easy it is to turn, and how stable it is to paddle and launch. Choosing the right shape is essential to finding the best kayak for your experience level.

Kayaks with rounded hulls offer more maneuverability, making them the best kayaks for navigating tricky rivers and coastlines. The best recreational and fishing kayaks tend to be wider and shorter — you give up some speed, but they offer far more stability, perfect for casual paddling and casting a line.

Do you want a one-person single kayak or a tandem kayak?

When thinking about the best kayak for you, consider whether you’ll be paddling alone or with a partner. Tandem kayaks, which have two seats in the cockpit instead of one, are naturally the best kayaks for paddling pairs. You learn to work together and enjoy the kayaking adventure together. Tandem kayaks are a great bonding experience with your paired paddler. However, even if you wanted to kayak solo, you can still use a tandem kayak!

Single kayaks provide you the freedom and flexibility to go whenever and wherever you want. You can enjoy the serenity of the open waters alone and on your own terms. Single kayaks are typically a lighter weight kayak so loading and unloading is easier — and you can travel a bit faster if you want to paddle off some of the day’s frustrations!

What about a pedal kayak?

Pedal kayaks aren’t as common as paddle kayaks, but they’re worth considering in certain situations.

If you are kayaking for the heart-health benefits, a pedal kayak is a fabulous form of aerobic exercise!

For anglers, pedal kayaks free up your hands, allowing you to adjust your fishing line or tie on different bait. They also cover more water in a shorter time, making them ideal for long trips. If you foresee multi-day treks or kayak fishing in your future, a pedal kayak might be the best kayak for you.

Once you’ve answered these six questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best kayak for you. Whether it’s to fish, exercise, or just to unwind, you’ll be out on the water in no time!

Kayaking is a great water sport that even the least athletic – or aquatic – among us can embrace. It won’t be long before a beginner kayaker will be paddling along like a pro, but starting a new activity can be confusing. For those who like to do their research beforehand, we’ve answered 10 questions that any beginning kayaker might ask.

What should I bring with me?

1. Bottled water for hydration
2. Snacks for fueling your body
3. Sunscreen UPF/SPF 30 or higher
4. Sunglasses that decrease glare
5. Whistle for safety
6. Floatation device or life jacket

While kayaking is fun, you will still be exerting a lot of physical energy, even at the beginner level — so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated. Sunscreen is essential, especially for long paddles, and sunglasses will help cut the glare from the water.

It’s good practice to keep a whistle on hand in case you get lost or encounter trouble while kayaking. The standard distress signal (three long blasts) will get the attention of other boaters and people on land.

As with any water activity, a good flotation device is a prerequisite. Invest in a life jacket that fits snugly and is comfortable enough to be worn at all times.

What should I wear when kayaking?

1. Wetsuit (if under 60°F)
2. Layer clothing if chilly
3. Swimwear (in warmer weather)
4. Waterproof footwear
5. Sun shielding hat

When kayaking, you want to think about both the water and the weather. Even if it’s warm and sunny on land, the water may still be chilly away from shore.

In conditions under 60°F, you should wear a wetsuit, as well as a lightweight fleece jacket or vest. In warmer waters, swimwear or shorts and a rashguard top will do just fine. Waterproof footwear and a sun-shielding hat are musts, no matter the weather.

Where should I go as a beginner kayaker?

1. Calm body of water
2. Avoid lots of motorized boat traffic
3. Lake or pond with gentle sloping shoreline

Once you have your kayak, it’s tempting to just get in the boat and set off for a marathon paddle down the river or out to sea. However, it’s probably not the best idea for beginning kayakers.

Instead, choose a small, calm body of water without motorized boat traffic. A lake or pond with a gently sloping shore will make for the easiest launch. This should present the fewest number of water hazards, allowing you to practice paddling in peace.

How do I stay safe while kayaking?

1. Bring a friend along
2. Don’t veer off to isolated areas
3. Avoid inclement weather conditions
4. Know your limits

Safety is key on the water, especially for beginning kayakers. Whenever possible, bring a friend along and commit to keeping each other within sight or earshot. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as well. You don’t want to get bogged down in a downpour or battered by choppy waves.

It’s also important for beginners to know their limits. Never paddle out further than you can reliably swim until you have more experience. It’s easy to over-exert yourself your first time out — set an easy pace and get a feel for the kayak, the paddle, and the water.

How do I keep my stuff dry?

1. Sealed plastic storage bags
2. Dry bags

Even though you aren’t directly in the water, you can count on getting wet while kayaking. Press-and-seal plastic storage containers work fine for items that can take a little spray, like wallets or food.

For more sensitive items like electronics and clothing, you may want to use a dry bag — but make sure you seal it correctly, with at least three folds of the top rim.

How do I get my kayak in and out of the water?

Launching your kayak can look awkward, but if all goes well, it should only take a moment.

Move your kayak as close to the water as possible, perpendicular to the shoreline. The front of the boat should be floating, while the back stays moored. Sit in the cockpit and adjust your legs, then use your arms or paddle to push off from the shore. To get out later, simply reverse the steps.

How should I sit?

Sit as upright as you can; good posture will save you neck, back and shoulder pain later. Slide your legs forward until the balls of your feet are resting against the footpegs. Turn your toes slightly outward, and check for a gentle bend in your knees. You’re ready to move!

How do I hold the paddle?

Kayak paddles are pretty intuitive, but there are a couple of ways to get the surest and most comfortable grip.

Hold your arms so that your elbows are at a 90° angle, with your hands equally distanced from the center. Make sure the long end of each paddle blade is on top, and that the scooped side of the blade is facing you — this will keep you moving through the water smoothly.

As for grip, make a loose “O” with your thumb and forefinger, then lay the rest of your fingers gently along the shaft. A relaxed grip will keep your hands from tiring too quickly.

What’s the best kayak paddling technique?

Kayaking is a forgiving sport, but learning the proper strokes will make your time on the water more enjoyable and efficient.

The stroke you’ll be using most is called the “forward” stroke: immerse the blade fully by your feet, twist your torso to pull the blade back, then “slice” it out of the water when it reaches your hip. To stop your kayak or move backwards, simply reverse the motion.

What should I do before heading home?

Breaking down is just as important as setting up, so make sure to double-check and dry off your gear. Look for any dings or dents on your kayak and paddle. Carefully dry all items to avoid mold and rust buildup. And, of course, make sure no gear gets left behind in the parking lot.

Make time to care for yourself, too — you likely worked up a sweat out on the water, so perform some gentle stretching exercises and drink plenty of water before getting in the car. You’ll be back on the water again in no time!

Did you ever want to know where is the best location to catch the trophy fish of your dreams? Here is our list of the top 10 locations across the United States for you to catch the most amazing fish! #HappyFishing

Largemouth Bass-Castaic Lake, California- Castaic Lake wins out for largemouth bass fishing areas just because of the sheer size of largies that have been caught in this location. No other lake can boast the amount of 20-pound+ fish that have been recorded like in Castaic. Catching a bass that large is a rare feat, but anything in the 12-15 pound range is not.

Tarpon-Boca Grande, Florida- Tarpon are one of the most exciting game fish out there, and nowhere can you catch as many big species as you can at Boca Grande, Florida. They can reach weights over 230 pounds, and you’’ll feel every ounce of that. Boca Grande embraces its tarpon fishing tradition.

Sheefish-Selawik Valley, Alaska-The Tarpon of the North, these similar looking species grow to weights of 60 pounds in northwest Alaska. Getting to the big sheefish of the Selawik Valley requires you to fly in to this location. These gorgeous fish can be caught almost all year-round, though summer offers the best results. The coldwater fish can be taken with spoons or even with a fly when they come to the surface.

Red Drum-Pamlico Sound, North Carolina- Catching red drums in the 30-60 pound range is pretty common, and there's also a chance to catch a channel bass over 80 pounds. Be aware that red drums are primarily a catch-and-release type of fish across the North Carolina coast due to strict regulations.

Muskie-Lake St. Clair, Michigan- Nestled in between Lake Erie and Lake Huron along the Michigan-Ontario border, Lake St. Clair boasts a tremendous fishery for many species in addition to muskie, despite having an average depth of only 11 feet. With all the species available, muskies get overlooked.

Mako Shark-Massachusetts Bay- Some of the best shark fishing in North America comes straight out of Boston. Massachusetts Bay contains several species of quality shark to catch, but mako is the prime target here. Catching a mako shark over 1000 pounds is super possible in the Massachusetts Bay. But be careful when fishing for makos, however, as they have been known to turn and attack anglers. 

Walleye-Lake of the Woods, Minnesota- Another lake that borders with Canada, Lake of the Woods sits on the very northern tip of Minnesota. Trophy walleye is commonplace on this lake However, if you’re looking for the ultimate Lake of the Woods experience, the best time to go is during the winter time. When the ice sets in, the most comfortable ice shanties you could find are sprinkled along the shoreline, and there are dozens of quality resorts to stay in as well.

Golden Rainbow Trout-Mahoning Creek, Pennsylvania- For anglers who enjoy river and fly fishing, there are few targets as elusive and colorful as the golden rainbow trout, found exclusively in a select few locations in the eastern United States. The best water system for golden rainbows is Mahoning Creek, Pennsylvania, where the biggest ones can be found. These golden rainbow trout can grow to weigh over 13 pounds. 

Striped Bass-Chesapeake Bay, Maryland- Chesapeake Bay is as good a fishery as you can find in the United States, especially for its striped bass. Spring and late summer-early fall are the best seasons for fishing as that's when fish move through the area.

White Sturgeon-Sacramento River- The biggest freshwater fish in all of North America can be found along the Sacramento River and into the San Francisco Bay Area. It is known to reach weights over 1500 pounds and lengths of over 20 feet. White sturgeon are governed under strict guidelines in California, so be sure to follow all regulations when tackling a monster fish this size and magnitude.

Fishing Kayaks for Your Angler Adventures

Need a kayak for your fishing adventures? Whether a traditional paddle kayak, single, pedal kayak, or tandem kayak fishing adventure, Brooklyn Kayak Company has you covered. See all our kayak inventory to find out what is best for you.