How to Do a Kayak Pull Up

Should you ever capsize your kayak, it's imperative you know how to pull up on your kayak in what is often called the "Eskimo roll." The Eskimo roll allows you to right the kayak without removing yourself from the boat. The Eskimo roll causes you to brace your paddle against the side of the kayak to pull yourself up and out of the water. While capsizing a kayak is common, knowing how to right yourself again can help you feel more comfortable in the water.

Step 1

Lean to the left of the boat if you are right-handed. Place the left blade of your paddle against the left side of the boat. Keep your head and torso in the water, allowing your nose and mouth to emerge to breathe.

Step 2

Stabilize your left hand against the left deck of your kayak. Dip the right side of your blade down into the water and sweep it away from the boat in a smooth motion.

Step 3

Pull your body toward the left side of the boat as you sweep away parallel to the kayak. This will create enough momentum to allow your head and body to pop out of the water.

Step 4

Snap your right hip upward as you emerge from the water. This helps to center the kayak back underneath your torso to regain balance.

Step 5

Continue the sweep until you've righted the kayak. Stop sweeping once you're level again. Oversweeping the right side of the paddle could cause you to simply capsize again on the left side.

Tips and Warnings

Practice capsizing and pulling up with a certified kayak instructor in controllable waters. You should feel comfortable with the motion before you attempt to use it on your own.