9 Tips for Solo Paddling / Kayaking Alone - Weekly Kayaking Tips - Kayak Hipster

[@boatman222345]

I worked for years as a professional Maine Guide teaching sea kayaking and for the past 25 years I've been a licensed boat captain running charter boat trips. Other than that I have basically done everything by myself. I've hiked, bicycled, snowshoed, cross country skied, canoed, kayaked, sailed, and motor boated many thousands of miles solo. I've even done some solo ice climbing although I must admit that did mot turn out to be as enjoyable as I might have hoped for and I can't say as I recommend it. The secret to all my solo travels and activities was knowing my limits and staying within them. Much is made of the supposed safety of groups but truth be told in the out of doors world when all is said and done we must all ultimately rely upon ourselves. A group of 3 sea kayakers caught in a storm quickly becomes 3 individual sea kayakers caught in a storm and how well things turn out has more to do with individual judgement and skill than with the "group." This is not to say that group activities are bad and beginning outdoor adventurers can learn much from the more experienced, and in a very real sense be more safe. But the blanket prohibition against solo outdoor adventure sometimes places too high an emphasis upon depending upon others and too little on depending upon oneself.

[@JosephMullin]

Where you a Maine Guide in 2017? I launched from Quoddy Head Light on May 1, 2017, headed for Key West. I capsized a mile offshore at Bailey's Mistake and was rescued by the Coast Guard out of Eastport.

[@Tripsurfer]

This guy gets it!!!!!! Keep truckin man I’m about to go solo winter kayaking tomorrow hope your having a solo adventure of your own

[@WhoTFVotedBiden]

What’s a tip on beating loneliness?

[@takentimes8903]

@@WhoTFVotedBiden do not go solo

[@Bsuepify]

Finally a Solo video, im so tired of watching videos and going to boating classes and being stopped by river control being told I need to kayak with a buddy. It's like people are so dumb they don't know how to take care of themselves so they need to take another person with them. I get there is always a chance of an accident but frankly If I had to do any of my kayaking, camping, and hiking with a buddy I would just have to stay home and do nothing. I only have my work friends and they are all Barbie dolls that smoke weed and don't do anything with nature. So solo trips are the only way I can get out and have fun, though I take all the precautions just in case something happens.

[@Emiliapocalypse]

Damn, an actual river control comes to stop you? That really sucks. I want to get a kayak and perhaps venture out alone sometime if I’m feeling that way, and didn’t think there would be any physical barriers to the process. Not everyone has someone to go with, and that shouldn’t be an impediment to just going out and enjoying life. Good luck to you ✌️

[@jt3512]

I do everything alone. But I follow my instincts, and if something doesn't feel right, I won't do it. No one around here is into nature like I am, and this area is very self absorbed, ppl are deep in their own zone. I have done things alone my entire life but when it comes to the water, I am more cautious than usual.

[@CuriousCat777]

J T me too. I go on solo hikes a lot because my friends aren’t as adventurous as me. I now find I enjoy my solo hikes better than waiting for someone. Much more relaxing.

[@whollyman]

It is SOO different, to be alone with nature. Recently however, while camping on a deserted island I was woken at dawn by multiple shots fired kinda close - OMG, hunting season!!!

[@tranquility9325]

I do everything alone also. I even went on the mo river alone. BUT, I was hyper aware of everything, and I stayed very close to the shoreline. A friend dropped me off and picked me up. Everything went well but initially I was scared to death lol.

[@stevencasale1589]

I can very much relate

[@jwinthepro]

Where you from?

[@chrismaggio7879]

I am usually alone, and honestly I rarely have more than 4 or 5 of those tips going on at any one time. I should. These are good and practical ideas. Thank you for making me feel guilty and thinking twice (I do mean that! Thank you)

[@dawoollyman8894]

Great for me since I usually go alone. It's not by choice but I understand the fear I often feel is actually healthy. Thanks!

[@KayakHipster]

dawoollyman it's absolutely healthy, but understanding the risks and being prepared for them makes it a bit safer. Also, learning to paddle within your limits as well in terms of locations and conditions. I think the hardest thing to do is turning around when conditions are too much, or choosing to not even go in if needed.

[@johnjacob688]

I really want to get into Kayaking but non of friends seem interested enough to join me. I don't mind going out by myself, I actually love to be out by myself. I just don't want to be out there alone while I'm learning something new and potentially dangerous.

[@KayakHipster]

John Jacob the best way to do this would be to find a local paddling group near you. They can help you go for local paddles, show you what the area is like, and help with gear as well. Paddling is one of those things that you should always start with a group, and then find ways to paddle alone after learning about the area, conditions, and gear to keep you safe.

[@davidrougely5385]

I had the same problem. I took a kayak safety class and then started venturing out on my own. I'm still doing mostly smaller lakes to fish from the yak in but as they say Rome wasn't built in a day. You gotta get out there and follow your passion. You just have to make sure you have all the safety precautions in place. I did recently join a local Facebook group in my area. Going to start going out with them over this summer. Good luck to you.

[@whollyman]

Please don't let that stop you. Exactly as people suggest, start small, with humility, and work your way up. Group no group, don't worry about that, follow the precaution principle, always underestimate your skills while committing to improving them and over time you will gradually acquire experience and confidence. I bought a folding kayak, I have not taken any lessons, nor done any group outings, and this summer I logged two overnight trips to islands on large bodies of inland waters, i.e., Lake Champlain in New England, it was absolutely fantastic. I plan on moving up to coastal waters one day.

[@CriticalH2]

None of my friends kayak with me so I’ve always been on my own. Honestly I have a lot of luck just linking up with people at the boat ramp in the morning

[@chuckk7704]

Thanks for the great info. I usually paddle solo and often in the same locations so I may get lazy about prepping for all eventualities. This is a great reminder video on the things I should keep in mind since I am on my own. Really enjoy your videos so keep them coming!

[@KayakHipster]

Chuck K thanks! Really appreciated. Keep on paddling!

[@finnsteiner9016]

Awesome vid! Solo paddling can be a rewarding and introspective activity. Thanks for opening up a conversation on this subject - some feel it is a taboo subject. All of your points are great - all things I do on expedition too! Have fun and stay safe out there guys :)

[@KayakHipster]

Finn Steiner thanks! I completely agree. I don't know why some paddlers chose to completely ignore solo paddling. It can be absolutely fantastic if it is done safely and with proper preparation.

[@truenorth365]

Good tips all of them! When going solo, I think of less open water and perhaps follow a coastline instead. A small tent/tarp and a warm sleepingbag is good to have with you if stranded (bad weather). Thanks for sharing!

[@KayakHipster]

Magnus Persson absolutely. And keeping your tent and sleeping bag in a drybag is also very important. Nothing worse than a wet sleeping bag...

[@andyroubik5760]

Good video, thank you! To truly know the ocean one must go to it as one would go to a sweetheart, alone!

[@kayasper6081]

I am planning a monster solo trip, so your ideas about padlling solo are very welcome. Thanks.

[@Klove89blues]

This sounds like something I have lined up in the years coming, and im looking for any and all info/tips I can get. can I ask you acouple questions?1.how long will your trip take?2.Where are you going on this trip?

[@lubensamuilov8217]

What happened

[@kayasper6081]

I would have started on the first of May in the innerlands of Holland (Arnhem), follow the river to the North Sea and then follow the coast line all the way down to the south of Spain. Almost 5000 km in six months. I was totally prepared in all details but suddenly our world changed. Maybe next year!

[@kayasper6081]

@@Klove89blues sorry, I didn't notice your comment before.

[@SkylinersYeti]

One thing any solo kayaker needs to remember. If you can not self rescue then you need to be prepared to die if you capsize. Self rescue could be as simple as swimming to beach. Do not expect someone to come out and rescue you if you capsize and are paddling solo. Push your comfort zone when with a group but paddle with in your limits when solo.

[@Ocean4Life]

Robert Crain absolutely agree. Going out there without KNOWING how to reenter is madness. I just started kayaking with my daughters- we’re all new to this. All we did first few times was find a safe place and practice both self and buddy rescue. It’s winter and 3 degrees Celsius in the water. With good dry suits we’re not only learning but also having fun with it. Safety first 👍

[@philvg76]

Good point. When I first started I had a capsize at the end of a long paddle and found swim to the nearby shore dragging my kayak was really slow and tough. I can now re-enter and pump out any water, & I have a back up plan for swim to shore with short fins (re-entry may still be challenging if it’s very rough and/or fatigue sets in). I use a paddle leash all the time and carry a rope for emergency/tow a friend. Fortunately these events are rare, but squalls can come in with no warning so you have to be prepared!!

[@GITMachine]

3 paddlers if possible is great advice. I find the 3rd paddler is the one who ends up grabbing the gear that always seems to float just out of reach :)

[@KayakHipster]

Ghostlore that's a great point! Floating hat, or glasses... very often paddle...

[@dragiwolf4945]

Thx I just got a kayak and this helps a lot!

[@martincheesman4564]

Thank you, I like that your posts are very informative and to the point. If I may add, if in open water it is best to have a lash from you to the boat. That way the boat won’t get blown away from you and rescuers can see you much more easily.

[@rochmel1409]

Great video. I am new to kayaking and am planning my first trip away from my home river in a few weeks time. I thought I'd got all the bases covered but you have pointed out a couple of things I hadn't thought of! Thanks. i'm now going to check out some of your other videos!

[@MonkeyNAround]

Excellent advice for those looking to paddle alone.

[@ALFarrell-kv6ok]

On solo paddles, I wear a snorkeling mask and snorkel around my neck and ready to don. Attached to the inside of the kayak on each side with thin pieces of fishing line, I have snorkeling fins. If unable to get back on board, I can don my mask, snorkel, and fins and more powerfully and quickly swim to shore even without using my hands. I can instead use one hand to hold the rope I have attached to the front of my kayak for towing to shore. I always use a paddle leash attached to a point to the front of my kayak seat. If falling out of the kayak when capsizing, I can keep hold of the paddle to keep the boat from getting away from me in wind, current, or waves.

[@GooshawnXD]

My duck kayaks with me so I'm never paddling alone 😆😆 Great tips. First thing I do when I get a new kayak is flip it and make sure I can get back in. I do so often on lakes so I'm ready if it happens on the river. I used to keep my dry bag strapped in the kayak until the one time I flipped it for a swim and my foot got caught in it. I was able to get out of it quickly but I'm glad it happened in calm waters and that I could learn from this mistake. It's like knowing how to change a flat on your car....something you just really need to know how to do before any trip.

[@maplesandme4709]

Nice video with helpful advices. I'm going solo quite often because none of my friends are into kayaking as much as I am or even less. :) I recently started to do solo multi day tours and tend to prepare more for all eventualities as I would when paddling with others. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and tips.

[@KayakHipster]

Glad it was helpful! Cheers

[@anthonyrenaud5783]

Great advice. You have a great head on your shoulders.

[@vikrm8726]

Great video. I paddle locally alone, but we are building a group of paddlers and the idea of three makes sense as a core group. Much appreciated safety advice..thank you. Keep the videos coming..

[@KayakHipster]

Vik RM great to hear. Paddle safe and keep it up! Cheers.

[@hope4surf]

Great video!!! Thanks for putting it together!

[@KayakHipster]

Thanks! cheers

[@trailtrashoutdoors8173]

New subscribers here from Trail Trash Outdoors! What great suggestions and tips! My brother and myself recently purchased our first kayaks and any tips and tricks will help us have a safer trip. Thanks! Much love-TTO

[@chrisnurczyk8239]

Thanks for the good info! Very clear & useful to a beginner like me!

[@CaptainNicBlake]

I just got my first kayak last summer (inflatable) and I try to stay as safe as possible. This video is great!

[@erintoby2605]

Good tip I heard was to make sure you wear a water bladder on you with fresh water. You can survive and be more comfortable if you have fresh drinking water while waiting for rescue.

[@pandanuscreekfilms6841]

this was super helpful

[@seditioushalibut]

Solid advice! Was a pleasure to meet you at #Lumpy2017. I primarily paddle solo and this is good reinforcement that we should always hone those skills needed to reduce risk.

[@KayakHipster]

Andy McKenna likewise! Absolutely. It's always good to get others' opinions on what they do when they paddle on their own

[@fulllifeadventures]

Great info. Thank you

[@starboy_skater5232]

Most of comments gives a unique reason to go kayaking solo . They are fun to read ..

[@PresenceVideography]

Great tips, thanks for sharing. I also cache map on phone before I go in case cell coverage not 100%.

[@ohiovetoutdoors]

Excellent advice 👍

[@barriereid9244]

It seems here in Scotland that the helmet is not often used. I am an ex A&E/ITU nurse so relish keeping my head protected. Dry suit all year round. Spare paddle and VHF a must. My repair kit, is to carry a few strands of High density plastic and a scraper. I can use my wood burning stove to heat up the scraper and fill in the gashes caused by rocks/barnacles....oh and Gorilla tape.

[@rayandrews01742]

Excellent concise tips, well presented.

[@KayakHipster]

Ray Andrews thanks! Really appreciated.

[@Corcioch]

Great Video. Thanks.

[@KayakHipster]

COBric no prob! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@aig5429]

Going alone is a lot of fun

[@normansufrin207]

Loving your vids mate.

[@VINCENTOCONNOR]

Great video, well done.

[@kerriskaraoke]

Thank you!

[@JosephMullin]

If you have a VHF radio and you are in an area covered by the coast guard, learn how to do a Mayday call and memorize it. Give only the information required. Here is something you may not know if you are in the vicinity of a Pawn Pawn or Securitae call you are obligated to help any way you can. I reported to a sinking vessel call and I reported with a powerboat. I could search areas where the rocks were that he couldn't. Since he told the Coast Guard I was assisting I had to call the Coast Guard and report my findings. Keep communications short and concise.

[@ulaso3989]

You have a super Turkish accent for a Texan.

[@MarkoKovac]

Great video but I would add one small not so usuall thing to do but it is at Tip 5 or more correct at 3:25. If you capsize and wind takes your kayak away you have huge problem! Dress apropriate is always good but in solo kayaking you should never lose your kayak cause there is more than one reason to keep your kayak always with you. To not lose it on solo kayaking in area of strong wind you should always have rope which is connecting you and kayak. That rope can be simple rope tie to your PFD and kayak. Problem is how long that rope should be, cause sometimes rope can be complication if is long and going in the Sea and bodering you. That is custom thing to do. Conclusion is that is always good to be tied to your kayak but also that connection (rope) should be simple and quick able to relase (like quick relase). It's easy to be general after battle but if Andrew McAuley (movie Solo - 2008) was tied to his kayak on journey from Australia to New Zealand his body would be find not only kayak. :(

[@KayakHipster]

Marko Kovac interesting point. I think a lot of people would disagree with you on being tied to the boat, even if you have a quick release. But I do get your point and yes, that was absolutely tragic. But I think overall these tips are more for local paddling and small time exploration. I think for that type of expedition, the rules are multiplied by quite a lot! Still, thanks for pointing that out. Cheers!

[@hcaldwell4085]

I was watching this today because I went solo yesterday. Capsized negotiating a log that spanned the river, which was fast, swollen from snow melt. Recovered everything and kept on toward my take out point. Water temp at about 33F and air at about 40F and sunny. I capsized again an hour later, went swimming or hanging on a tree for a total of about 3 minutes. Kept my paddle and my waterproof box that had my phone in it. Of course I was wearing a PFD and I'm sure I'd be dead if I hadn't been. Lost my kayak and my drybag that had a coat hat and gloves. Feeling lucky today considering it all. Thinking about how to keep doing what I like to do without dying, and shopping for a new kayak. So if anyone sees a tan kayak with a yellow dry bag, well...you know...

[@Wild_Sugar_Love]

Cute!

[@josepharndt6061]

Do you know of any social kayak clubs online

[@williamvan909]

lol .... if your in a bug out you do not want anyone to know were your going your on your own .. more people will slow you down waste of time .keep safe out there bug out ready people.

[@jerrygriffin6471]

I paddle alone. I have a 12 foot field and stream eagle run set up for fishing.it has a flat bottom with two channels running the length of the kayak for stability.

[@josephsaeteurn9158]

how do you deal with sharks that bite your kayak and sinking? i will NEVER go out alone.. no fish or adventure is worth it!

[@josephsaeteurn9158]

yeah? tell that to the people who said the same thing as you.. and then they become a victim by a GWS. attacks on kayakers are common and not make the news because it's NOT a fatality. most time, they bite the kayak or thrown the person off it.

[@calciumchloride710]

I might have not been looking in the right place for statistics, then. The only data I could find showed under 20 boat/craft attacks, and under 100 non-fatal attacks. I don't know whose butt you have to kiss to make sure your attack gets included in those numbers, but if you've got more trustworthy data please post a link. www.surfer.com/features/hard-numbers-shark-attacks-2017/ www.trackingsharks.com/2018-shark-attack-map-bites/

[@josephsaeteurn9158]

the incident at bean hollow beach and cannery row did show up on your map because i knew about those ones. good.. the one that happen up north by sonoma coast didn't even show up. i get my source from my fellow kayak community forum (up and down west coast) from first hand experience over some article by someone who doesn't even fish the deep blue. not to say it's not accurate. it's not reliable if people don't report it. everything little things that deals with GWS will be posted on the forum for all to see. from shark sighting, to hearing a thump under the kayak to just pain shark washing up on beach. but thank you for your link. i will try to remember some incidents from years back to see if ti makes the map. memory is getting bad.

[@clnred]

And I pack money in the boat and my pfd

[@24hrdiner]

After seeing this I'm not going kayaking

[@Thorny5718]

Good god does he ever breathe between sentences!