How to Stop a Kayak From Wobbling

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Kayaking in water conditions such as high tide, high sand bar and deep bottom can cause your kayak to start wobbling or flip over. High tide is when the tide is at its peak for the day. High sand bar means a ridge of sand has formed in the current. Deep bottom means the bottom end of a water source. You can stop your kayak from wobbling to have better control over your steering and speed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Paddle

Step 1

Step down into the center of the kayak, which will keep it from wobbling as you enter it. Keep your feet side-by-side as you step down.

Step 2

Sit upright inside the kayak with your feet resting on the foot pegs, which are located on each side of the kayak. Bend your knees slightly, but do not extend them above the cockpit. Readjust the foot pegs if necessary. Rest your upper thigh on the pad, which is located beneath the deck. Paddle out into the water.

Step 3

Maintain control and keep your kayak steady during lifts. When a wave approaches, wait for the wave to lift the back of your kayak and then tilt the kayak into the wave when your kayak starts to turn. Steer your kayak so it is parallel with the wave. Lean forward to slowly move the boat from the wave and prevent wobbling and/or a flip.

Step 4

Maintain control of your kayak under a breaking wave. Sitting upright, push your total body weight onto one butt cheek. Tuck your elbows to your sides and keep your movements restricted to the width of your shoulders. Maintain this position as the wave breaks under your kayak to prevent wobbling and maintain control of your kayak.

Step 5

Learn how to properly paddle to prevent wobbling. Pull the entire blade of the paddle in and out of the water on either side of your kayak. Maintain a close distance between the paddle and the side of the kayak, which will provide greater control of the kayak and prevent wobbling. Wait for the next wave to pitch up behind your kayak.

Step 6

Remove your paddle and ride out the wave; your kayak will naturally rise up and then move down the wave. Paddling as your kayak pushes out in front of the wave will cause wobbling, so hold the paddle steady at the side of the kayak until you pass the wave.

Tips & Warnings

Maintain a loose grip on the paddle for easy handling.

Always make sure your path is clear.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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