Size of paddle - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

taggermike · 04-15-2013, 08:46 AM

Some water will always end up in your lap, but a longer paddle can help. A longer paddle will allow you to use a lower angle paddleing stroke. Lower angle=less water running down the shaft. Mike.

Irishman · 04-15-2013, 06:43 PM

Thanks guys, I have the drip rings, will see if I can get some larger ones than what came with the paddle

PE.rider · 04-16-2013, 12:03 AM

Most paddles have drip rings on both ends, and each paddler has their own preference as to where placement is ideal to avoid water drip. Some, like it at the edges by the throat of the paddle, and others right by their hand grip areas.

For myself, I've always positioned them several inches up ... or closer up the shaft as you move inwards, but never more than 5 inches. Depending on your kayak width, you can make your adjustments, but the most important thing to consider is to not paddle too deeply.

If you getting winded paddling, then chances are you are sinking the paddle too deeply into the water. As long as you immerse the paddle from tip to throat and maintain a rhythm and stride, you will be moving across the water in a decent pace.

If this works for you, then you can thank my summer camp counselor from the Catskills when I was a wee laddie.

04-15-2013, 08:46 AM	#1
taggermike Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Chula Vista Posts: 1,589	Some water will always end up in your lap, but a longer paddle can help. A longer paddle will allow you to use a lower angle paddleing stroke. Lower angle=less water running down the shaft. Mike.

04-15-2013, 06:43 PM	#2
Irishman Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Posts: 306	Thanks guys, I have the drip rings, will see if I can get some larger ones than what came with the paddle

04-16-2013, 12:03 AM	#3
PE.rider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: OC, CA Posts: 234	Most paddles have drip rings on both ends, and each paddler has their own preference as to where placement is ideal to avoid water drip. Some, like it at the edges by the throat of the paddle, and others right by their hand grip areas. For myself, I've always positioned them several inches up ... or closer up the shaft as you move inwards, but never more than 5 inches. Depending on your kayak width, you can make your adjustments, but the most important thing to consider is to not paddle too deeply. If you getting winded paddling, then chances are you are sinking the paddle too deeply into the water. As long as you immerse the paddle from tip to throat and maintain a rhythm and stride, you will be moving across the water in a decent pace. If this works for you, then you can thank my summer camp counselor from the Catskills when I was a wee laddie.