High Angler Paddle Shoot Out: Werner Shuna vs Aquabound Whiskey

[@azikiwe12]

I love your reviews. You're very honest, objective and genuine. Thank you!

[@chovue2363]

So graceful in your natural elements!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Cho Tube thanks! Very kind of you to say.

[@HeathenGeek]

07:32 Well. That took a sharp left turn into Darksville. :-) Was looking at getting a Shuna with glass paddles, good to get some info on it from someone who's used one for a while.

[@saintpedr00]

thats some of the most impressive paddling i've ever seen

[@HeadwatersKayak]

🙏

[@daveanderson8776]

Thanks Dan ! So enjoy your KZbin blogs ! Started kayaking this summer because of being inspired by your shows. Peace. To you and yours ! Ps my wife and are going to be buying Adventuras soon , waiting on roof rack to come 🚣🏽🚣🏻‍♀️

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Super excited for you guys. Glad you’re enjoying the channel. I’m sure enjoy the summer making videos

[@Jimmygator1966]

Thanks for is video! Was on the fence in regards to several paddles, but ended up with the Shuna.

[@Kwood10]

Love that kayak . I’m looking at an Eddyline Skylark this weekend . Those paddles are nice . I have an aqua bound sting ray carbon touring paddle really like it.

[@navet80]

How did that paddle work out for you?

[@Kwood10]

@@navet80 I decided on the Eddyline Equinox I tried both (Skylark)out & preferred the Equinox.

[@fishinnoob3291]

Dang, watching you makes me feel like I been paddling all wrong, LOL! I know, the Sea Ghost 130 isn’t meant to move like that. Awesome vid, thanks for Sharing. 😊

[@HeadwatersKayak]

You might be surprised what a good beginner class and a nice paddle will do. The paddle that comes with the SeaGhost is pretty basic. Defiantly the first thing to upgrade. Thanks for watching. Lets get together and paddle sometime.

[@FrankLadd]

Lessons are definitely worth the effort. Most fishermen think a 10 mile paddle is a long way but most can paddle farther in a day than you can walk with some training and some practice. Most boats turn much better than you think. In fact with a little training you won't want the complexity of a rudder on most boats under 13 feet long.

[@GM-wc9nn]

Thanks for doing this review as well as your other educational videos. I’m new to the sport and if I lived anywhere even remotely close to your shop, you’d definitely have a customer for life! Hope all is well and thanks again.

[@FrankLadd]

I preferred the Aquabound paddles years ago, especially there shred for surf paddling. But the Manta Ray paddle fell out of favor over the years as my touring paddle and now I prefer less dihedral. Now I'm using an Epic touring paddle 205-215 for almost everything. On long trips or for a change I'll bring a Greenland paddle or a single blade.

[@TheDcrocks1]

Why would you preffer less dyhidral??? ( spelled that wrong )i say i would preffer it. I have the shuna and i love it but the dyhidral design of the aquabound series paddles i appreciate.

[@hunterlinker6013]

I wanna learn all the different paddle techniques you use it looks really fun are there classes for teaching advanced paddling?

[@danwadleigh4874]

Thanks Dan. Been thinking about moving to a higher angle paddle, and this was some good info.

[@brettkovak6344]

Great vid! I’ve been learning a lot more about paddles this year especially blade design. I paddle both river and tour and I’ve been looking for a shorter paddle but I’ve had a few people talk me out of it! My favorite paddle that I have currently is A Werner Tybee CFIM ina 215 cm but it’s still a bit long for my touring boat I believe. I did learn enough however to know that I do not like paddles with a lot of dihedral so I’m going to check out the Werner Shuna!

[@krakhare7111]

One thing I’ve discovered: if you’re kayak fishing, i.e. moving a wide, heavy boat, you need that dihedral to move!!

[@TheDcrocks1]

You should touch on the topic between the 205cm and 220 cm. Not which one is better, but about the mechanics. I have the shuna 220cm.love that paddle.but I'm not sure what's the difference between a 220 cm shuna and a 205cm shuna. My guess is one goes in deeper,and I'm not sure that's even a good thing. Deeper = denser water = more effort = more stress on body. I think shorter paddle will get you moving, cause the blade stays fairly shallow.but at the cost of higher paddle reps. any thoughts?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

TheDcrocks1 it depends on the paddlers height and the type of boat your in. Longer paddles equal more leverage on your body. The more verticals you keep your shaft (keeping your top hand high) the shorter your paddle length can be. Ideally you want the full blade submerged and none of the shaft. If your dipping your shaft your working to hard. There is lots to it and your right it deserves its own video. I’ll work on it soon! Thanks for the comment. Happy Paddling.

[@TheDcrocks1]

Thanks for the quick response. I've been looking for advise on this subject.tha is again. I noticed I was dipping my paddle too much, when I tried to surf my kayak. I couldn't keep up, with the up- coming wave,I would get thrashed by the wave. But thanks again for confirming some of the ideas I had with this topic. Time to tweak....question.....ever cut a paddle to make it a specific length?

[@jeffcrews1213]

We have a Manta Ray Carbon paddle that has a textured shaft (like concentric overlapping circles). Is the texturing on the Whiskey the same? I was hoping Aquabound’s higher end paddles would do away with that.

[@undefeatedgaul3201]

Crescent lite tackle 2 + 6’2” + 220 so about the same size as you. Most of these charts I’m looking at saying 250-260. What’s your preference?

[@raymondjiii]

Curious why you are using a 205cm paddle when you stated that you are 6'2" 220lbs, and not a 230cm or 240cm (Unless when you said "205" that meant something else and not the length) ?

[@rommelrivera1186]

Probably due to a combination of high-angle style and how narrow his kayak is. I'm going through the same questions in my mind until I receive my Skylark and the Corryvrekan paddle that I ordered and try them on the water. I'm only 5' 9" and the Skylark is not too wide at 26". I should be OK with my 215cm paddle length if I learn proper high-angle technique. I erred on purpose on the side of a "smaller" paddle; I want the length to remind me when I am lowering my angle.

[@yosuecaridad944]

You consider yourself a high angle paddler right? For kayak fishing and almost in the same price range, would you go with the bb angler classic, tybee hooked or manta ray hybrid. I thing the manta ray with that carbon shatf and lighter weight must win the tybee and anlger Classic. What do you think. Thanks

[@richardskip]

Hi. Do You think the Shuna would be right for something in between high and low angle paddling? Like i do.

[@NateBuildingBricks]

That sure is a short paddle. I'm 5' 7" with a 29" wide boat and I'm looking into a 230 cm paddle. I'm not sure if I'm doing it right.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

007NateNasty if your looking at a sit on top your right one. If your looking at a sit in side you should go shorter. Also high angle and low angle makes a difference. I go 10cm shorter for high angle paddles.

[@dankraus4959]

@@HeadwatersKayak Hey Dan, it's the other Dan - my wife is 5'7" and will be getting a Pungo 120, what length low-angle paddle would you suggest? I'm 5'8" and will be paddling an Aventura 125 (which I believe is 26" wide), what size low-angle paddle would you suggest? I've really enjoyed watching your videos. Big fan! Thanks and happy paddlin!

[@heatherlandskron]

what kayak paddle would be good for beginners? hi. have a good evening. i hope all is well.

[@TrongNguyen-ky6wy]

Any updates on Shuna vs Whiskey carbon in terms of long term usuage and longevity/durability? I’m about to pick up one of these and don’t know if the whiskey carbon is worth 100-200$ more. Any info from anyone helps. Thanks

[@HeadwatersKayak]

This same Shuna is still going strong. The Whiskey ended up moving on to a new home.

[@TrongNguyen-ky6wy]

Got to try out the Shuna for 2 hours at Monterey Bay. It was awesome, did 6 miles almost continuously and felt great. However I’m craving a bit more blade. I’m thinking about picking up a Corryvrecken, I can get 15% off and $30 bonus towards the price. I just hope I don’t develop any injuries from it. I’m a small build 5’6” 150lbs and don’t really paddle more than 2 hours, so I hope I can enjoy the Corry. I’ve read some descriptions of flex and flutters and that would be annoying. Honestly though, the Shuna can flutter when I’m not focused and being lazy, but it was barely noticeable. Let me know if you can provide any info/experience with the Corry. Thanks. My goal is to have 1 of each paddle for high angle and low angle. So I don’t wanna have both Shuna and Corry. I enjoy the low angle too and digging deep while speed cruising. I don’t know if that makes sense. Also if you can recommend and full size/large blade low angle.

[@TrongNguyen-ky6wy]

To follow up, if anyone happens to be in my same situation. I’ve opted for the Corry. It’s a tricky paddle, but once I’ve adapted to it, it’s great, at least for short term paddling, less than 2 hours, which is my usual. The Shuna is way more forgiving and is much better all around. Corry is only good if you’ve got extra power to burn and that you’d like the challenge of honing your technique bc it will flutter like crazy if you get lazy. But once I’ve found the sweet spot strokes, it MOVES! . My current Corry is 215cm and it seems a good fit. I tried the 210cm Shuna and it seemed a tad too short for my 31” wide IK. But now I fully understand the 205cm length that is being used in the video bc when I tried dipping the Corry too deep, it fluttered like a muther (especially when I’m not using my core)! Smaller blades can get away with it somewhat but high angle strokers should not dip it lower than the base of the blade to benefit from optimal efficiency. This is my first year yaking, started last spring/summer so I have a lot to learn. Im gratefully for videos like these so I can learn even more.

[@chickenguru4]

Wow not seen a kayak move like that. I currently paddle a jk cuda hd with a 250 Aqua bound mantaray hybrid. I'm looking for something stiffer in the blade as I flex it too much I'm sure and can spend 7-9 hrs on the water so lighter would also be nice.What's a few to check out.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Glad you found it helpful. I'd suggest the Aquabound Whiskey or Tango. Or Werner Shuna or Cammano are very stiff, just a little heavy. 250 should be good size for you though. Those longer paddles will flex if you don't go carbon or glass. Those Manta Ray's are light, but have tons of flex. Cheers!

[@keithmoriyama5421]

I don't like Aquabound paddles. The textured surface tends to slip if your wearing gloves. This doesn't happen with bare hands, but I do notice a bit of flutter if I lax on my technique. This never happens with my Werner even if I get lazy and don't always use the perfect form-- something you shouldn't have to think about it.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

If I found it to be an issue for me I would have. I don’t have issues with slipping, but I don’t use gloves often. Mostly I run pogies and also use a touch of wax on all my paddles for grip. I do like the Werner better for other reasons.

[@stevecleans]

Have u made a video on safety vests? Thanks

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Yes a couple.

[@bosery7724]

I’m debating on buying the Werner Tybee paddle or the AquaBound Manta ray hybrid. I mainly fish in my kayak. Any advice on either of the paddles?

[@Ranger_k16]

I'm on the fence between the shuna and the werner corryvreckan. can you tell me how they compare if you have ever used it before. your videos are so informative for someone new to the sport

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Ranger77 that’s a simple one. Just more surface area on the Corryvreckan. More power, more bite in the water; but it can also mean more strain on your body on a long day. If your a bigger stronger paddler you’d probably love it. If your average sized I’d go with the Shuna. Still plenty of grip, but a little easier to live with on a really long day.

[@Ranger_k16]

@@thejuror2009 I actually ended up getting the corryvreckan and love the power and bite

[@Ranger_k16]

@@thejuror2009 l went with a 230cm fiberglass straight shaft. I am 6' and my boat is a little wide at 32". however now that I've been using it for a while I am looking at the bent full carbon

[@joshsherrod2822]

Just recently got a beginner kayak and looking at getting the aqua manta Ray carbon 2 piece what’s your thoughts on that paddle for fishing? Also I am 6’ and the sit on top kayak is 32” wide would a 240-250 cm paddle be good enough?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Josh Sherrod yes the Manta Ray is a killer paddle for the price. Go 240 if your only 32” wide. Unless you plan on using a high seat or standing a bunch.

[@roy-nk4vq]

Looking for a good paddle for my new CK1. Any suggestions?p

[@Ocean4Life]

Just got to test the shuna yesterday. It was a 210 bent and felt so incredible. I'm looking at buying this paddle, but don't know if it's worth the extra $ (20% more for bent) and weight to go for the bent version. I've always paddled straight paddles and have no problems or injuries ... will I regret not getting the bent one later on?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I’ve had both and I’ve gravitated back to straight.

[@Ocean4Life]

@@HeadwatersKayak thanks for letting me know. Just got back from a day of wind and waves in western Norway and the Shuna would’ve been great today

[@dawncrossland3028]

@@HeadwatersKayak Can You Elaborate Why?

[@YAKMANONT]

Great video buddy

[@roywarriner8441]

205 seems very short for a 6'2" paddler. Werner's size chart would have a six foot paddler using a 215. I'm 6'1" and use a 215cm Shuna bent shaft paddling a 20.5" wide kayak.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Personal preference and paddling style I guess. Most high angle paddles I know use 205-210. 215 for a 20’ boat seems crazy.

[@roywarriner8441]

@@HeadwatersKayak I know it's preference but Werner's sizing chart has a 6' and up paddler using a 215 for a high angle stroke. I went with recommended and it seems right. You're very smooth with your bow and stern rudder but in the vid you are paddling a fairly tight course, I think the shorter paddle would be a better choice if you are doing that most of the time. For flat out cruising and sweeps though I get more power from the longer shaft. Now I'm thinking the shorter paddle might be a good backup though.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Look around at all the top instructors and paddlers. Most use 205-210. I’ve always felt Werner’s size chart to be way off base. I don’t see the need to put added leverage on your body. If your blade is fully buried throughout the stroke that’s all you need. If you bury the shaft your wasting effort. At least that’s always been my Philosophy. With that said as I’ve gotten older and lazier with my paddling I’ve moved to a 210 cm for most my touring. If I was rock gardening or surfing I’d still use a 205. My wing paddle for surf ski is a 210 as well.

[@babyyoda6771]

I’m 6 foot with a pungo 125 (width of kayak 29.5) From the charts I’m looking at I seem to be right in the middle for 230 and 240. Any recommendations on length?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

If I was paddling that but I will be using a 215 high angle and maybe a 220-230 low angle. 240 would be obnoxiously long in that kayak. Curious what size chart you’re looking at?

[@babyyoda6771]

@@HeadwatersKayak I was referencing the aqua bound and Werner size charts. Werner says if I’m 6 foot or taller for my kayak width i need 240. Aqua bound Stingray charts say over 6 ft needs 240 and 5’7’’ - 6’ needs 230. (I’m just over 6ft) I ended up getting a 230-245 stingray carbon with versilock. If it were you, would you exchange it for a 220-235 or will the 230-245 low angle be ok? Thanks for responding to these questions btw your channel is truly helping me get into kayaking.

[@Weeble_Warbles]

TIL paddling is way more technical than I ever imagined.

[@Adventure-MTB]

Whats your go to paddle today in 2020

[@stacyc4916]

He's seen most of the time with a Bending Branches Navigator.

[@6136086]

The hatch traps water.

[@Mr.JonaVelazquez]

Hey man you looks like silver surfer when you're paddling

[@wkdravenna]

Goodluck catching any bass off that thing. :)