Re: [Paddlewise] Kayak surfing question

I think it is fairly common for you boat to want to turn left or right and not
go straight.  Same things happens paddling in the wind.  You can control the
direction by using a stern rudder stroke.  If you are going left, stick the
paddle in on your right side and rudder away.

You will find that you can only control the kayak from about 10:30 to 1:30
before you end up broached to the breaking waves.

Once broached you are correct to brace into the wave.  Here's the tricky part.
In addition to bracing, you want to also edge into the wave, helping avoid water
from getting under the boat and flipping you over.  The combination of bracing
and edging provides support.  But as the wave dissipates you need to adjust the
edging and bracing position.  As the waves pressure becomes less, so does your
"lean" into the wave.

Finally, two safety points.  Wear helmets when surfing.  It is best to capsize
away from shore.  This places you between the waves and your boat and will help
avoid the kayak wacking your body.

good luck, hope this makes sense

sid


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