Buzz
For mental clarity and light physical activity, nothing surpasses the tranquility of being on the water. Living near a lake allows me to enjoy evening kayaks several times a week, where I observe wildlife, savor a snack, and occasionally anchor to drift peacefully.
Purchasing my own kayak a few years ago was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It transformed kayaking from a seasonal activity dependent on rentals to a spontaneous, anytime adventure. If you’re considering joining in, here’s what you should know.
Try kayaking through rentals before making a purchase
Before investing in a kayak—ideal for frequent use—it’s wise to try renting one a few times. If storage or transportation is an issue, renting might be your best bet. (There are inflatable and foldable options, but we’ll discuss those another time.)
My kayaking adventures are limited to rivers and lakes; I have no experience with ocean kayaking, though I’ve heard it’s popular. I also prefer calm conditions, so don’t ask me about wetsuits, spray skirts, or rolling techniques.
For river kayaking, rental services typically drop you upstream and pick you up downstream. This setup is tricky to manage solo without friends or multiple vehicles.
A more relaxed option is renting a kayak on a lake for an hour or as long as you like. In my area, most state parks feature lakes with rental services offering canoes, single and double kayaks, and sometimes rowboats, paddleboats, and paddleboards.
The rental provider will supply all necessary gear (kayak, paddle, lifejacket), offer a quick tutorial on maneuvering, and highlight any restricted areas of the lake.
Is getting wet inevitable while kayaking?
The interior of a sit-in kayak tends to stay dry, but there’s no absolute certainty. I always prepare for the possibility of capsizing, imagining a scenario where I and my gear end up in the water. While it hasn’t occurred yet, I stay ready for it.
Dressing for potential splashes is practical, as paddle drips are common, and you might need to step into the water to enter or exit the kayak.
For a typical outing, I opt for shorts and waterproof sandals, with a regular top like a t-shirt. I secure my car keys to my belt and protect my phone in a plastic bag, stashing it in a zippered pocket or fanny pack—or sometimes leaving it in the car. Occasionally, I bring an old phone, as even deactivated devices can dial 911 in emergencies.
What’s the proper way to paddle?
During your first kayaking experience, your focus will likely be on basics like how do I control this thing. It’s perfectly fine to concentrate solely on that. (Here’s a video, by the way, that demonstrates how to maneuver it.)
If distance and speed aren’t priorities, you can manage without formal instruction. Casual paddling on a serene lake doesn’t require lessons. However, mastering technique becomes essential if you aim to navigate skillfully or use kayaking as a fitness activity.
An effective paddle stroke engages your core and upper back muscles to pull the paddle, while your body stabilizes against the kayak. Beginners often feel shoulder soreness from lifting the paddle out of the water. Overall, intense paddling blends cardio and strength training.
What activities can I enjoy in a kayak?
Once you’re comfortable with paddling, your kayak becomes a vessel for exploration. Even on a small lake, like the one in my local park, you can choose different routes and encounter diverse wildlife in various areas.
For me, the highlight of kayaking is observing nature. I’m fascinated by birds and wildlife, and the lake often reveals creatures I rarely spot near my home. Great blue herons linger in the shadows, green herons hunt fish in the swampy areas, swallows dart about catching insects, and muskrats occasionally swim by. Once, an osprey circled above before diving to catch a fish. Another time, I quietly approached a dark shape in the water, only to see it dive and slap its tail—a beaver!
(Fishing enthusiasts can use a kayak to access parts of the lake unreachable from shore. While I’m no expert on kayak fishing, I’m sure avid anglers can figure it out or find guidance.)
With an inexpensive anchor (around $10 at a bait shop, plus some rope), you can settle in your favorite spot and relax. It’s the perfect time for sketching or enjoying a packed lunch. Following my “what if I fall in” rule, I bring only blank paper and pack snacks in a simple paper bag.
Kayaking is more enjoyable with company, but safety is crucial with kids or pets. Children under 12 must wear a properly fitted lifejacket, and they should never be tied to the kayak. The same applies to pets—yes, your dog needs a lifejacket too.
Considering purchasing a kayak?
If you love using rented kayaks, investing in your own might be a smart move. Keep in mind that owning one means you’ll need to provide your own lifejacket, paddle, and any additional gear or safety equipment.
When choosing a kayak, you’ll need to make a few key decisions:
Sit-in or sit-on-top? Sit-in kayaks are the classic choice, offering more protection from water. Sit-on-top models are better if you plan to swim frequently.
How long? Longer, narrower kayaks are faster and track better. Shorter, wider ones provide more stability but are less efficient for paddling.
One person or two? Tandem kayaks are larger and heavier, and they may not handle well with only one person.
What’s the weight limit? Factor in not just your weight but also any additional loads like a pet, child, or cooler.
Always check local regulations for kayaking; you might need permits or licenses. Also, consider whether you can transport and load the kayak solo—lighter models are much easier to manage alone.
I opted for a simple 10-foot sit-in kayak. It’s perfect for calm lakes, where speed isn’t crucial, and I usually paddle alone. It’s sturdy enough for an adult and a child or just my husband. With a larger budget, I might have chosen a longer or tandem model.
When budgeting for a kayak, don’t forget to account for the paddle, lifejacket, car carrier, and storage space. (Check out innovative storage solutions that allow you to mount your kayak on walls or ceilings.) If storage is a concern, consider inflatable or foldable kayaks—though we’ll dive into those details another time.
