PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Entering a paddle craft for the first time is definitely a new feeling and it will take some practice before the process becomes a smooth one. Practice entering your canoe or kayak in shallow water and follow these safe loading guidelines:

STEP 1    Check the capacity plate (or check with the manufacturer) to ensure that:

• The equipment and passengers do not exceed the recommended gross load capacity.
• The number of passengers on board do not exceed the recommended maximum passenger weight.

STEP 2    Make sure every passenger is wearing a properly-fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

STEP 3    Position passengers and gear so that the load weight is equally distributed, centered and as low as possible in the paddle craft.

STEP 4    Try not to stand up or make any sudden movements once you’re on board.

STEP 5    Secure your equipment to prevent uncontrolled weight shifting during paddling.

STEP 6     Strap your gear securely to the paddle craft with a tie-down line. This way, if your canoe or kayak capsizes, you won’t lose your gear in the lake!

Your paddle craft will have less distance between the waterline and the deck than a motorized boat—so swamping or capsizing will be far more likely in a smaller craft like a canoe or kayak. Never overload your boat!