How to Navigate Through Fog when Sea Kayaking

Endlisnis on Flickr

Kayaking on the ocean is a common adventure sport bringing non-surfers out into the open waves and allowing individuals to explore otherwise inaccessible coastline. However, one of the dangers when kayaking on the ocean is the potential onset of fog, and any kayaker should be prepared to handle such a situation. If you don't know how to handle fog when it hits, you could find yourself lost at sea.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Take stock of your inventory. If you have a radio, flares, GPS or a flag, these can all be to your benefit.

Step 2

Attach a flag or brightly colored item to the front of the kayak. This will make you easier to spot if the Coast Guard or other help is out searching for you.

Step 3

Issue a mayday call if you have a vhf radio, and see if the Coast Guard is able to pick it up.

Step 4

Navigate using a marine GPS, if you have one. This will let you stay close to the coast or find your way safely ashore. It might also help you navigate various currents and channels on the water if you are on the open sea.

Step 5

Shoot flares into the sky periodically to get the attention of other seafaring vessels.

Step 6

Try to keep the kayak in relatively calm channels of water, or ones you have control in.

Step 7

Avoid setting up a mast or other anything that extends upward. This will increase the degree to which your kayak catches wind, lowering its stability.

Tips & Warnings

If you find a coastline, stay near it.

Never abandon your kayak. When you are struggling emotionally, remember that the fog eventually will lift.

Article Written By Jonathan Croswell

Jonathan Croswell has spent more than five years writing and editing for a number of newspapers and online publications, including the "Omaha World-Herald" and "New York Newsday." Croswell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Nebraska and is currently pursuing a Master's of Health and Exercise Science at Portland State University.

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