FIND FREEDOM IN A CANOE

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There are two rules of thumb commonly used to determine the length that will suit you best: You might simply choose a paddle that—when you're in a standing position—reaches up to your chin or a bit higher . . . or you could, instead, buy one that just fits between your hands when your arms are stretched out to the sides.

MASTERING THE BASICS
As is the case with any active sport, canoeing demands a certain proficiency in several specific skills. Before you even set foot in one of the narrow boats, it's a good idea to practice the basic strokes . . . while, say, kneeling on the edge of a dock. Hold the paddle by placing the palm of the hand that's opposite your paddling side on top of the grip, and—with the other hand—grasp the shaft as close to the blade as is comfortable. Since a paddle is most efficient when it's vertical, or nearly so, make sure the blade will enter the water at a point near your knee, and draw it back only as far as your hip. Then, as you return the paddle forward for a second stroke, "feather" it (turn its edge forward) in the air to decrease its wind resistance.

Once you've gotten the "feel" of paddling, get a partner and practice the different strokes in a canoe . . . keeping close to shore at first. If possible, have an experienced canoeist friend take the stern while you sit in the bow, and let him or her instruct you in the various techniques (see Fig. 3). You'll want to learn how to go forward and back up, pivot the boat, turn in a wide "sweep" stroke, execute emergency maneuvers, and—once you graduate to the stern—master the "J" stroke.

Of course, just getting into and out of the boat can be an education in itself. To board, first pull the canoe parallel to the dock. Then stow all your gear (which should be in watertight bags), balancing the weight fore and aft as well as from side to side, and lash it securely to the thwarts. Be sure—even on short outings—to take along an extra paddle, bailers (capped milk jugs, cut off at the bottom, and sponges will do nicely), and duct tape (for emergency repairs). . . attach a painter (a length of line) to the bow and coil it neatly in the boat . . . and always wear life preservers. Finally—with all the gear secure—the person who will sit in the bow climbs aboard . . . and, once he or she is seated, the stern rider eases in place.

It's best to paddle from a kneeling position (in order to keep your center of gravity low in the boat), resting your buttocks against the seat and using pads or cushions to minimize the wear and tear on your knees. Some canoeists find this position uncomfortable, however, and prefer to paddle from a seated position . . . except when in stormy water or rapids, where a low center of gravity would be essential.

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