Description
Book SynopsisThis is a complete beginner's guide to the sit-on-top kayak. Sit-on-top kayaking is the fastest growing water-based activity. It's fun and easy to learn. Anyone can do it! Paddlers, newcomers and those curious about the sport will find all the answers to their questions in this book. Using colour photos and clear descriptions, this book is the perfect introduction to sit-on-top kayaking. Choosing the right kayak, how to store and transport it, how to get the most fun out of your boat and how to stay safe whilst doing so are explored in detail. Snorkelling, fishing and scuba diving are some of the other activities that benefit from using sit-on-tops and these are also covered.
Table of ContentsWhy Choose a sit - on - top kayak? 7Where can You paddle? 8Rivers 8Canals 9Lakes 9The Sea 10Getting started 11Buy or hire? 11Get tuition 11Transport and storage 11Choosing a kayak 13Essentials 15Equipment and Accessories 16Paddles 17Clothing and flotation 22Kayaking with Children 29Getting afloat 30Warm up 30Lifting and carrying 31Launching 32Getting to know your kayak 34Paddle Skills 34Forward paddling 35Paddling in strong winds 36Turning and sweep strokes 37Extended paddle sweeps 39Reverse sweep 39Making a 360 turn 40Stopping 40Reversing 41Edging turns 42Stern Rudders 43Moving sideways 44Support strokes 45Low brace turn 47Rescues 47Staying safe 53Paddling as a group 53Solo paddling 54Float plans 54Your safety kit 55Communication afloat 56Flares 57Towlines 58Weather and the kayaker 59Wind 59Sun 61Sea and surf 62The surf zone 62Landing and launching in the surf 64Tides and currents 68River paddling 69Diving and Scuba 73Kayak Fishing 75Kitting the kayak out 75Staying safe 76Clothing for fishing 78Fishing safety gear 79Fishing equipment 79Caring for the environment 83Last Word 84Glossary of terms 85Useful contacts 87Instruction and guided tours 87National governing bodies 87Websites and magazines 88Books 89
