Video: A couple more solo canoe self rescue clips

Here’s a couple more solo Canoe self rescue clips. Both of these are the same rescue from different vantages. Just like last time I also did the same rescue with a 40 pound camping gear load, with similar results.

This is my second time trying this and things are getting a little bit smoother. My hand positioning is different, I have two 57 inch NRS float bags tied in, which I would say is about the minimum if you want to be able to do something like this reliably. It’s also really nice size because it still gives me just enough room behind the seat for my normal camping load.

The principles here are the same as any type of kayak or canoe self rescue. Hold onto your boat so the current or wind doesn’t take it. Think about what you’re doing with your paddle. Get as much water out of the boat as possible before you try to get back in. Stay as low as possible when you’re getting settled. Finally: PRACTICE.

Practicing with the gear load you will have, in the water temperatures this might happen in, in whatever immersion gear you will or won’t be wearing, in whatever state of tidiness or disarray your boat is usually in will give you a realistic perspective on the practical limits of rescue ability and give you a chance to troubleshoot any potential issues.

A couple simple examples would be items in the front pocket of a PFD catching on the boat, or gear tied in with lanyards creating a tangle. I saw this stuff constantly when I was teaching sea kayaking. People would show up with rescue class experience but around half the time that I would push these people over with loaded see kayaks in rough water they couldn’t actually get back in their boat.

I’m not a fanatic about rescues though. I feel like paddling in calm close to shore, is an equally viable safety strategy. It’s just about being prepared for the type of paddling you’re gonna be doing.

I’m new to the whole canoe thing so if anybody has any solo canoe self rescue tips please let me know!