Re: [Paddlewise] speed with versus against the current

From: Michael R Noyes <mnoyes_at_ix.netcom.com>
Date: Fri, 29 May 1998 10:46:39 -0400
D.R. Ferron wrote:

> Along these same lines, I'm new to kayaking and I've been going out recently on
> a lake.  For some reason, I seem to paddle straighter and easier going INTO the
> wind and against the current, heading into the waves.  When I turn around and
> head to shore the way I came but with the wind at my back, I feel awkward and
> have a hard time keeping on a straight course.  Is this difference because it's
> a lake rather than a river?
>
> Thanks, Donna
>
>
>
> --
>
> ***************************************************************************

 It might be the waves and not the wind that is causing your problem.  When hit
from behind by a wave boats try to broach, or turn sideways to the wave.  All boats
tend to broach at least a little, some more than others.   The design of the stern
is the deciding factor here.  Or, if your trim is a little bow heavy, the wind
would act as an aid in tracking upwind, but work against you downwind.  Try putting
a gallon container full of water in the stern and see if it helps.

Mike

--
    Paddling along through fog so thick that only one's thoughts are
visible, your reverie is abruptly shattered by the ancient cry of a great
blue heron as she lifts uncertainly from the brilliant blue of a
mussel-shell beach witnessed only by the brooding, wet spruce....your
passage home seems as much back through time as it does through space.
Mark H Hunt


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Received on Fri May 29 1998 - 07:50:41 PDT

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