Significance
If you cannot separate your kayak paddle, you will not be able to adjust its angle to feather it according to the wind on your next trip. Storage also becomes an issue when you can't separate your paddle into two pieces.
Cause
Salt deposits build up during ocean outings. If you leave your paddle together after your trip, the salt welds your paddle together.
Solution
To separate your paddle, soak it in fresh water or spray water from a hose around the joint. This will help dissolve the salt crystals. Expect to still need to pull and pry to get the pieces apart.
Prevention
Separate your paddle immediately after your trip and rinse the salt off with fresh water. Store your paddle in two pieces.
Considerations
Even if you only paddle in fresh water, separating your paddle for storage reduces the chance of the paddle joint becoming sticky.
Article Written By Kathrine Cole
Kathrine Cole is a professional outdoor educator. She teaches rock climbing, backpacking, cycling, and bike maintenance classes. She is a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School, a Wilderness First Responder, and a Leave No Trace Trainer.
