Need advice - Kayaking

Whitewater?

Yeah, you have to figure out the type of water. Down here in La, sit-on-top kayaks or sea kayaks can do most everything, as we have zero whitewater. In Colorado, different story. If I were whitewater kayaking, i would definitely take a class, and learn how to roll.

I'll go shopping with you if you need help

Just holla.

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river kayaking

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You do know this is about as dangerous of an activity as you can undertake?

Many super badass rock climbers, sky divers, you name it have perished this way. I'd never say don't do it, but you better damn well be prepared to rescue or be rescued even on the best of days.

Moving water = no bullshite. Just sayin.

Ever thought about a stand up paddleboard and hitting the lakes and streams?

You want a touring class kayak or a recreational….unless you are talking about rivers that have any rapids. You will also need a double bladed paddle of course and a good life jacket. I would call up your local dealers…most of the time they have demo days where you can take out different boats and ask questions like this.


If we are talking rivers like the Mississippi…I would recommend a Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 or 140. Sturdy vessels that don’t tip easy and are very comfortable for recreational kayaking and draft well for day touring.

If you are looking at whitewater let me know. I have been doing most of my life and know a good bit about it. Living in Shreveport makes it hard to paddle as a lot of the rivers close by are rain dependent. I also have a wife and kid now so that doesn't help!

North Georgia has some great whitewater but be careful what you get yourself into if you are a beginner! Always go with someone that knows the river and never paddle alone!! If you have a kayak now i would get in a swimming pool and learn how to roll. There are a lot of "how to" videos on you tube that would be helpful. You will get the basic technique but noting will teach you until you more than being on the river in an actual rolling situation. I started on the nantahala in north Carolina when i was 5 years old. It is a great river for beginners but the water is really cold!!

As far as equipment goes, you will obviously need a boat, spray skirt, life jacket, helmet, and paddle. It can get pretty expensive but you can typically find some good used gear if you are around whitewater communities.

One of my favorite runs in Georgia is the tallulah gorge. I wouldn't recommend it to a beginner but it will give you something to work towards. Below is a pic of the famous rapid on that run.

If you need any more information shoot me an email. RPGJR85@AOL.COM.

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rpg005

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dke2

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Thanks for the info. I've hiked Tallulah before. One of my favorite spots in the area. I'd definitely love to get on the water there too.