Kayak Cowboy Self-rescue (scramble rescue)

[@kristafechner6451]

This is one of the better videos I've seen for this technique. It hits many of the key points, especially keeping feet in the water and center of gravity low. Only thing missing is in the narration: she does scull a bit at the end while putting her legs in the cockpit. Sculling or at least getting ready to high brace while plopping your butt down and getting your legs in is essential for using this technique in rough water.

[@tillerman35]

I was trained slightly differently: Start with head toward the stern, feet toward the bow. Crawl until your legs can "frog" into the cockpit. Cross your legs as you put them in. When your legs are in, rotate and slide into the seat. This keeps the body lower and allows the use of hands AND legs to keep balanced. The twist takes practice, but it's quite natural once you get the hang of it. The person I learned this method from called it the "Reverse Cowgirl." ;-)

[@chriskelvin248]

1) A paddle leash would free up any complications of trying to perform the Cowboy Scramble with a paddle in one hand. It costs $10. Added benefit is you'll never use your paddle. Carry a spare paddle anyway. 2) The lower you keep your center of gravity while scrambling up towards the cockpit, the lower the chance of flipping over in the middle of the maneuver. Legs hanging low in the water, body low on the deck.

[@ColdspringPaddling]

Actually try it long before you are in a pinch! This rescue can and does work, even in rough conditions, but requires practice, practice, practice.

[@WillN2Go1]

Cool! I've been paddling for 10 years--I'm jealous. I guess I have to try this.

[@rebootxl]

Thanks for the video. I had to do this technique twice today. It's very fast..

[@mopbrothers]

Excellent Technique. I will try this next time I'm in a pinch.

[@hikingsarah]

this is a great little video!

[@nj4x4fever2]

nice job, you made it look easy.

[@sweeproRi]

This looks like the fastest and easiest way to get back in a kayak. During winter when the water is ice cold there is little time.

[@slacktide_angler]

will this work in rougher waters?

[@ColdspringPaddling]

Yes, being fit and having good balance helps, but being able to bench press 20 pounds or 300 pounds would make little difference. Practice, practice, practice, and not in one long session but many short sessions. Of course it depends on the person, on the kayak, and on the conditions. It's worth practising even if for no other reason than to develop balance.

[@Novelty2300]

I hate shortlegged people for this...