1. Steer Clear of Bad Technique
To improve kayaking technique, evaluate your steering stokes. Most kayaker's simplly paddle more or to the opposite side of the direction they want to go. The correct method is to steer the bow in the direction you want to go. The steering stroke cannot be the same motion as the movement stroke. The steering stroke starts close to the boat hull, moves in an arc away from the boat, and then comes back. Make sure your paddle blade faces directly away from you at the beginning of the stroke and points towards the stern at the end. This is the correct technique for kayaking.
2. Determine Wave Height
Perspective affects your ability to accurately evaluate distances. In a kayak, your eye level is 2 feet above the water. Sit on the floor of the kitchen in your house, exactly as you would in your kayak. Look straight forward and then look at the counter tops. A standard countertop is 3 feet high off the floor. The angle you tilt your head see what's on top of your counters is the same angle you'll need to see over the top of a three foot wave. Keep this in mind when reading the weather forecast and the estimated wave heights.
3. Keep in Close Range
When kayaking to a destination, it's important to take the range into consideration. Several objects in a line are a range. The first line is created between you and your target destination. Markers in the channel act as a third object in the line. Select a buoy as your target, then look beyond it to the physical place that you want to go to. Start paddling towards your target, always keeping the buoy and the target in line. The kayak drifts out of line due to the current of the water. Be aware of this fact and focus on moving the kayak left or right to stay in line with your destination and the buoy. Properly using this kayaking technique will get you where you need to go.
4. Plot Your Trip
Navigating a kayak is not the same as navigating a car: landmarks are further than they appear. To correctly define the range of travel, plot your course on land before you start kayaking. Start with the time that you have available. Allocate time for getting into the water with the kayak. Using your best pace as the speed of travel, plot a course to your destination. Multiply this time by 1.25 to allow for natural increases and decreases in speed. When plotting your course home, multiply the time by 1.5 to allow for fatigue and change in water direction. If you plan this way, you can be sure you'll arrive on land before the sun sets.
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