The Basic Book of Sea Kayaking »

This concise introductory handbook is packed with expert advice and contains all the essential information a novice needs to hit the water while providing a quick reference for the more experienced paddler.

Preface to the Second Edition     ix
Introduction     xi
Basic Equipment: What Do I Need?     1
Kayak Construction     1
Choosing a Kayak     6
Clothing     9
Equipment     15
Packing Your Boat     22
Emergency Equipment     25
Preparing for Takeoff     29
Where to Practice     29
Handling and Loading     33
Launching     35
On the Water: Basic Strokes and Maneuvers     39
Capsize Drill (or the Wet Exit)     39
Paddles     42
Edging, Leaning, and the Knee Hang     45
Basic Strokes     46
Forward Paddling Stroke     47
Bracing Strokes     50
Reverse Paddling     55
Emergency Stop     56
Forward Sweep Stroke     57
Draw Strokes     59
Stern Rudder Stroke     62
Low Brace Turn (Low Telemark Turn)     63
High Brace Turn (High Telemark Turn)     64
Rescues: Capsizes Away from Land     67
Paddle Float Rescue     67
"T" Rescue     70
Eskimo Rescue     74
Eskimo Roll     76
Sunk Boat     76
Basic Seamanship     79
Tides and Tidal Streams     79
Weather     80
About the Author     83